Manchester United have set their sights on hosting the final of the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup at a planned 100,000-seater stadium, which would be the largest in the UK.
The club unveiled plans in March for a £2 billion “iconic” stadium to be built near their current Old Trafford ground.
Despite doubts from outside observers about the ambitious timeline, United remain confident the project can be completed within five to six years, as envisioned by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The UK is the sole bidder to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup, with all four home nations expected to be involved.
The Football Association is preparing its official bid to submit to FIFA by the end of 2025.
United believe their new stadium will be operational well before the tournament kicks off and hope it will be chosen as the venue for the final match.
Club insiders acknowledge the potential for delays but remain optimistic about the timeline outlined by Ratcliffe earlier this year.
The club’s announcement came alongside the appointment of Lord Sebastian Coe as Chair-Designate of the Mayoral Development Corporation overseeing the Old Trafford regeneration scheme. Coe previously led the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force formed by Ratcliffe and has a strong track record, having chaired London’s successful 2012 Olympic and Paralympic bid.
United CEO Omar Berrada praised Coe’s appointment, saying, “The continuity he brings to the project is hugely positive.
His proven leadership and experience with major developments will be invaluable in making our shared vision a reality.”
The first designs for the new stadium were showcased in London four months ago, marking a bold chapter in Manchester United’s history—one that could see the club play a central role on the global women’s football stage in 2035.
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