​Manchester United has disclosed the proposed site for a new 100,000-seat stadium designed to replace Old Trafford. The venue is planned to be located roughly 350 metres from the existing stadium, in Trafford Wharfside, at the core of a new Stadium District built specifically for sport, entertainment, and year-round activity. United envisions the stadium as the largest in the country and a driving force for broader regeneration across the entire area.
Collette Roche, United’s chief executive officer, commented on the Wharfside Masterplan, calling it a milestone in the club’s pursuit of a world-class home at the heart of a vibrant and transformative district for Trafford and Greater Manchester. She emphasised that, in collaboration with partners, the club has a once-in-a-generation chance to deliver a destination that will bring lasting benefits to supporters, local communities, and the wider region for many decades.
Last year, Manchester United unveiled plans for this new stadium as part of a broader redevelopment strategy, with the project’s design and vision refined through collaboration with architectural firm Foster + Partners. Roche noted that the proposed site’s location alongside Old Trafford would help preserve the club’s heritage, traditions, and the matchday rituals cherished by fans, while also ensuring the infrastructure and connectivity necessary to offer a truly world-class matchday and fan experience.
United reiterated its commitment to building a top-tier stadium in partnership with supporters, stressing that atmosphere, affordability, and accessibility would remain central to the project. The club signalled its intention to maintain ongoing dialogue with fans and other stakeholders as the design and development process advances into its next phase.
The project follows a significant milestone in which United secured control of a large portion of the land needed for the development. The purchase covers most of a 25-acre triangle around Trafford Wharfside, with officials confident that the remaining land can be acquired to progress the £2 billion scheme, which was initially proposed by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
If realized, the stadium and its associated district are expected to deliver substantial socio-economic benefits. Projections show the development could yield around 15,000 new homes, including a portion of affordable housing, while supporting more than 90,000 jobs nationwide and 48,000 roles in the Manchester area. The initiative is also forecast to contribute over £7 billion annually to the British economy, underscoring the project’s potential to stimulate growth and regeneration across Manchester and beyond.
In addition to the stadium itself, the broader plan envisions a connected, multi-use complex designed to host a continuous calendar of events, entertainment, and community activities. This approach aims to create a lasting legacy that extends well beyond football, positioning Trafford and Greater Manchester as a dynamic hub for sport, culture, and economic activity. The Stadium District would integrate transportation links, housing, retail, and leisure facilities to support sustained urban regeneration and deliver a thriving, inclusive environment for residents and visitors alike.
As Manchester United progresses into the next phase of design and development, fans and stakeholders can expect further updates detailing how the stadium will harmonise with Old Trafford’s heritage while propelling the club’s global brand and community impact. The club remains focused on delivering a premier, accessible, and affordable experience that reflects the values of supporters and the broader region, reinforcing Manchester United’s commitment to excellence on and off the pitch.