Sir Jim Ratcliffe has given his first interview as Manchester United’s new part-owner, and it’s clear the Englishman has some substantial plans in the pipeline.
The question that’s been on everybody’s lips since the news of his buy-in was first confirmed is what he intends to do with Old Trafford, which is in dire need of some TLC.
Of course, the stadium holds such illustrious, extraordinary history and memories that matchgoers especially are reluctant to see it replaced, but all can recognise the level of work that needs to be done to match the standards of United’s rivals.
A complete renovation of the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ along with building a new home for the 20-time champions are both options that are currently on the table for Ratcliffe.
In a clip shared on United’s social media today, he addresses the pressing matter.
“It’s not quite of the standard you would expect of Manchester United today and it’s fallen behind, maybe 20 years ago it was, but today it’s fallen behind. So, we do need to look at the way forward for the stadium, the redevelopment of that stadium,” Ratcliffe explained.
“There are clearly two roads we could take; we could refurbish the existing stadium or we could look at building a new stadium – and that’s what we’re looking at, at the moment.”
Two potential pathways for our home ❤️
Sir Jim says options are being considered for the future of Old Trafford…#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 21, 2024
Footage courtesy of Man Utd.
