Old Trafford redevelopment: Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants 'national stadium in the north'

[CharlieH]

 

New Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe says his "preference" is to build a new stadium for the club that can also "serve the north of England".

United have played at the 74,310-capacity Old Trafford since 1910, but Ratcliffe acknowledged it had become "tired and in need of refurbishment".

 

A new stadium could be built next to the existing ground in Trafford Park.

"It's about time someone built a national stadium in the north of England," said the British billionaire.

Ratcliffe added the potential project could be a "catalyst for regeneration" in south Manchester and would therefore warrant a "conversation" with the government about using taxpayers' money.

In his first broadcast interview, with BBC sports editor Dan Roan, since completing his deal to buy 27.7% of the club, Ratcliffe added: "If it can be achieved, it would clearly be my preference.

"I would be very excited for the north of England."

• Read more: Man Utd 'must walk to right solution, not run to wrong one'
• Listen: The Sports Desk podcast: Sir Jim Ratcliffe - full exclusive interview

Ratcliffe spoke about the potential for the new stadium to host England games and FA Cup semi-finals, both of which are played at Wembley in London, as well as the Champions League final.

He said there was "significant bias in terms of major investments being in the south".

Old Trafford has not been chosen to host games at Euro 2028, and last staged a Champions League final in 2003 when AC Milan beat Juventus on penalties.

 

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[flyingtlger]

4 minutes ago, CharlieH said:

"significant bias in terms of major investments being in the south".

Don't forget the "Golden Rule".

"He who has the Gold, makes the Rules".....