Updates on the 'new Old Trafford' set to cost nearly €2 billion

Manchester United remains hopeful of having their new 100,000-capacity stadium ready in time to host the Women's World Cup final in 2035. The project, with an estimated cost of around €2 billion, aims to replace the iconic Old Trafford, originally built in 1909.

Despite concerns over the apparent lack of progress since the plans were announced a year ago, Collette Roche, the executive director for stadium development, assures that the project is on track. Speaking to MUTV, Roche confirmed that the club expects to submit the planning application within the next 12 to 18 months, aligning with Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham's ambition.

"Our plan is to be able to host other international sporting and entertainment events," Roche stated. "Andy Burnham, the Mayor, said his ambition would be for us to host the Women's World Cup final in 2035, so if we can achieve that, it would be incredible."

The project lead clarified the timeline, explaining that while construction will take four to five years, the preparatory phase, which includes land acquisition, securing funding, and obtaining permits, could take one to two years. "That's the part we're in now. So, we haven't set an opening date, but we are meeting the deadlines," she assured.

One of the biggest challenges has been acquiring additional land around Old Trafford, particularly negotiations with Freightliner for the adjacent freight terminal. However, Roche indicated that significant progress might be made soon. "I've spent a lot of time talking to all the local landowners [...] and we're making very, very good progress. I hope to be able to share positive news on that in the coming months," she revealed.

Collette Roche emphasized that the goal is to create a venue that honors the club's past but is prepared for the future. "We want to build a stadium that is worthy of our past, but also fit for the future. We want to ensure we retain what's important, the special memories [...] and create a new stadium that retains that essence: the matchday routines, the excitement, the intimidating atmosphere for visiting fans."

Beyond land issues, the club faces other hurdles, such as securing public funding for the regeneration of the surrounding area and private investment for the stadium itself. Roche expressed optimism, stating there is "a lot of interest" from organizations willing to invest not only in the stadium but in the entire district.

Collaboration with local authorities, including the newly formed Mayoral Development Corporation, chaired by Lord Seb Coe and supported by Andy Burnham and Trafford leader Tom Ross, was highlighted as crucial for the success of the ambitious project.