There has been discussion about renovating United’s stadium due to various issues, including a leaky roof and ageing stands. The last major revamp occurred in 2006.

The stadium project is a significant task for Ratcliffe, a minority shareholder since last year. He aims to create “The Wembley of the North” and hopes for public funding.

United aims to open the new Old Trafford by 2030, but the initial estimated cost of £2bn may rise due to increasing construction prices and required materials. A stadium survey found that West Ham’s London Stadium and Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, which both cost less than £500m, were among the next most expensive stadiums.

Ratcliffe emphasized the need for a large stadium in the North, similar to Wembley, to justify the local teams’ success, stating that it would serve as a “nucleus” for the area and provide impetus. He highlighted the inconvenience for Northern residents to travel to London for big football matches and expressed his view that a large stadium should be available in the North.