The reigning Premier League champs are making room for more fans — and possibly boosting the U.K. and Ireland’s chances to host the 2028 Euros.
Manchester City submitted plans for a $372.6 million renovation of Etihad Stadium, including a capacity increase from 53,400 to around 61,000.
The plans include:
- An upper tier on the north stand, with a sky bar and roofwalk above
- A covered “City Square” fan zone with food and drink outlets
- A new club shop and museum
- A 400-bed hotel
- A workspace for startups and mid-sized organizations working with Manchester City, team owner City Football Group, and Etihad Campus partners.
City said that the renovations will take up to three years and create 2,600 jobs.
The renovations could also bolster the U.K. and Ireland’s joint bid to host the 2028 UEFA European Championship — Etihad is listed as a participating venue.
Built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games, the stadium has been home to Manchester City since 2003.
Trouble in the Neighborhood
Meanwhile, Manchester United fans and investors are reeling from the news that Joel and Avram Glazer may retain control of the club, despite a lengthy, ongoing sale process.
The team’s stock plummeted 13.8% from Friday night to early Monday before partially recovering on Tuesday.
