A recent survey released on Tuesday indicates that a majority of Manchester United fans prefer constructing a new stadium rather than redeveloping Old Trafford. Of the 50,000 season ticket holders, club members, and executive club members surveyed, 52% expressed support for a new facility, while 31% favored the redevelopment of the iconic stadium. An additional 17% of respondents were undecided.
Manchester United’s cross-city rivals, Manchester City, moved from their Maine Road stadium to the new City of Manchester Stadium in 2003, while Premier League opponents Liverpool have successfully redeveloped their Anfield home.
In September, United unveiled artist’s impressions of a potential regeneration project for Old Trafford, indicating that a new stadium could form part of a multi-billion-pound redevelopment effort.
The club’s owners are currently evaluating options in collaboration with the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, which includes notable members such as former United defender Gary Neville and World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.
According to reports from The Daily Telegraph, a final decision on whether to pursue redevelopment or construction of a new stadium is expected in the first half of 2025. The Task Force is reportedly concentrating its discussions on the possibility of a new 100,000-capacity stadium instead of refurbishing Old Trafford.
Rick McGagh, United’s Director of Fan Engagement, stated, “We know how important our home is to fans and we need to listen to them and gain all their views and insights in order to develop the world-class stadium they deserve. We are able to view the results through different lenses to understand if our season ticket holders feel differently about anything than, say, our official members. And if younger fans have different views to older fans.”
