An iconic European soccer stadium could be demolished as part of a redevelopment plan.
Old Trafford — the home field of Manchester United since 1910 — could be torn down as the Premier League club considers a multitude of options for upgrading the iconic venue and increasing its capacity from 74,000 to more than 80,000.
- An option for Manchester United includes expanding Old Trafford’s South Stand.
- A South Stand expansion would face the logistical issue of a public railway behind it.
- Another option is renovating all four stands within Old Trafford’s current construction.
Manchester United’s last and “least likely” option is building an entirely new stadium — a growing trend in soccer.
AC Milan and Inter Milan have plans to build a new $1.3 billion stadium slated to open in 2027. Chelsea is reportedly looking to build a new stadium, while Everton has already broken ground on a $694 million stadium set to open in the 2024-2025 season.
Long Wait
Chelsea is considering a new venue due to expensive repairs at the club’s home field, Stamford Bridge stadium. In May 2022, Chelsea was bought by a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, and Sparks owner Todd Boehly for $5.2 billion. The group plans to invest $2 billion in Chelsea from its takeover deal with plans of a new stadium for The Blues.
Construction of a new stadium could have Chelsea play at London’s Wembley Stadium for up to five years.