foster + partners unveils plans for manchester united's future 100,000-seat stadium in the UK

foster + partners reveals design for manchester united stadium

Manchester United unveils ambitious plans for a new 100,000-seat stadium, designed by Foster + Partners, as the centerpiece of a large-scale regeneration of Old Trafford. The proposed stadium and surrounding development aim to transform the area into a global sports and cultural hub, delivering £7.3 billion annually to the UK economy and generating 92,000 new jobs.

The new stadium, situated adjacent to the existing Old Trafford, will preserve the club’s historic identity while introducing a state-of-the-art design focused on fan experience and sustainability. Conceptual images and scaled models unveiled by Foster + Partners showcase an outward-looking structure with an expansive public plaza—twice the size of Trafalgar Square—and a vast energy-harvesting canopy that shelters the stadium and collects rainwater. The district will be entirely walkable, well-connected by public transport, and enriched with green spaces. ‘Today marks the start of an incredibly exciting journey to the delivery of what will be the world’s greatest football stadium. This new home will transform the fan experience while acting as a catalyst for lasting social and economic renewal,’ states Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United.

designing the future of old trafford

The Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, led by Lord Sebastian Coe, has played a crucial role in exploring the area’s redevelopment potential. With the feasibility phase complete, Manchester United will now lead the stadium’s delivery, while the Mayoral Development Corporation will oversee the broader regeneration effort. ‘Our objective is clear: to have the world’s best football team playing in the world’s best stadium. Following extensive consultation with fans and local residents, we believe a new stadium is the right path forward,’ highlights Omar Berrada, Chief Executive of Manchester United, highlighted the long-term vision: “”

For Norman Foster, the stadium represents a landmark in football and urban design. ‘This has to be one of the most exciting projects in the world today. It starts with the fans—bringing them closer than ever to the pitch, cultivating an incredible atmosphere. Beyond that, the stadium is a miniature city of the future, setting a new global benchmark for sustainability and connectivity,’ he shares.

The vision for Old Trafford extends beyond football, aligning with Greater Manchester’s economic growth strategy. Mayor Andy Burnham sees the potential impact as bigger than the 2012 London Olympics, stating: ‘If we get this right, Manchester United will have the best stadium in the world—true to its traditions, accessible to all, and setting new global standards.’ With the masterplan now set, Manchester United moves into the next phase of design development and consultation, paving the way for a new era at Old Trafford.