Manchester United confirm site for 100,000-seater stadium 350 metres from Old Trafford

Manchester United have confirmed the site of their planned 100,000-seater stadium, announcing on Tuesday that it will be built on land recently purchased from Indurent, approximately 350 metres from Old Trafford, as part of the Wharfside Strategic Masterplan.

Although the new ground will not occupy land currently attached to Old Trafford, the club insists it will honour the existing stadium’s history and traditions. The new arena will serve as the centrepiece of a purpose-built Stadium District designed for sport, entertainment and year-round activity, forming the flagship landmark of the broader Trafford Wharfside development.

The masterplan outlines an ambitious vision for the surrounding area, including improved public transport links, enhanced rail connectivity, and new walking and cycling infrastructure. Beyond the stadium itself, the scheme envisions a mixed-use neighbourhood projected to create 48,000 local jobs and 15,000 new homes, with an estimated economic contribution of £7.3bn per year to the UK economy.

Collette Roche, CEO of the new stadium development, described the publication of the masterplan as “another significant milestone” in the club’s journey. “Together with our partners, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a destination that creates lasting benefits for supporters, local communities and the wider region for decades to come,” she said.

Roche added that the chosen site’s proximity to Old Trafford was a deliberate decision. “The proposed stadium site is ideally located alongside Old Trafford, enabling us to preserve the heritage, traditions and matchday rituals that are so important to our supporters, while also providing the connectivity and infrastructure required to deliver a truly world-class fan experience.”

She also stressed that supporter input would remain central to the design process. “We are committed to building a world-class stadium with our supporters, not simply for them. Atmosphere, affordability and accessibility will remain at the heart of our plans.”

Trafford Council leader Cllr Tim Ross welcomed the announcement, saying the masterplan “starts a long journey to piece together what could happen where” and emphasised the council’s ambition to create a destination that functions beyond matchdays. “We want to create a great place to be, not just on matchdays but every day,” he said, calling on residents and businesses to help shape the vision.