Sir Jim Ratcliffe gave green light for “last-minute” change to Man Utd’s 100,000-seater stadium, it’s growing on fans

Sir Jim Ratcliffe provided the green light for a last-minute change to be made to the club’s new and extraordinary stadium design.

On Tuesday morning, Manchester United announced plans to construct a brand-new 100,000-seater stadium rather than refurbish Old Trafford.

After months of analysis, the club’s ‘Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force’ determined that building a new venue was the best course of action.

Consequently, Old Trafford will eventually be demolished, with the new stadium set for completion by 2030. Although the club is set to remain at their current home until ‘New Trafford’ is ready to play in.

The decision has divided United supporters, with many voicing opposition to the demolition of the historic Theatre of Dreams.

Ratcliffe green lit last minute United stadium change

The canopy over the top of the stadium appears to be one of the most controversial designing decisions in the fans eyes, despite its purpose being to collect rain water and solar energy.

Another decision that initially split opinions amongst supporters was the three masts on the stadium, the tallest of which is 200 metres and has been joked about being the away end.

It has been claimed that those masts will be able to be seen from the Peak District and areas of Liverpool. United seemingly want it to become an iconic part of the stadium like the arch is at the new Wembley.

Interestingly though, such a bold decision was not made until the last-minute, according to iNews.

They claim that designers had finalised plans for a design without the three masts. However, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was in full support of the “last-minute” design change that saw the masts included.

United fans growing on trident stadium design

United fans were confused as to why the masts were included but most of them are slowly turning around to the decision after the reasoning was explained.

Lead architect Norman Foster stated that the inspiration behind the design is the devil’s trident which prominently features on the club’s badge.

Looking at the stadium designs, fans started seeing the idea and are beginning to support that aspect of the concept.

A lot of them were against the club making another soulless bowl, and one thing is for sure, this stadium would be like no other.

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There are still concerns, particularly about the affordability for local, matchgoing regulars. But the bold design is at least starting to grow on people.

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