By Oladejo Umar (U19MM1124)
Manchester United have appointed Lord Sebastian Coe, former London 2012 Olympics chief, as Chair-Designate of the Old Trafford Regeneration Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC). His role is to spearhead the club’s ambitious £2 billion plan to build a new 100,000 capacity stadium, a bold vision being described as the “Wembley of the North.”
The Daily Mail reports that the club hopes the state of the art venue will host the final of the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, should the UK’s solo bid succeed. The new stadium project, led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is being designed by the renowned architecture firm Foster + Partners. The design features a striking trident structure and includes a public plaza twice the size of Trafalgar Square.
United are aiming for completion by the 2030–31 season, though negotiations with landowners Brookfield over the Freightliner Terminal remain a key obstacle. Coe’s appointment could enable the use of a compulsory purchase order to resolve the dispute.
A two time Olympic gold medallist and experienced sports administrator, Coe brings global credibility and leadership to the regeneration project. Speaking on the vision, he said:
“This is about more than just a stadium, it is about building a vibrant district with housing, jobs, and world class facilities.” He added that hosting the 2035 Women’s World Cup final would be “a unique opportunity to showcase global football.”
Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada praised Lord Coe’s appointment, stating that his experience will be instrumental in revitalizing Greater Manchester and re-establishing Old Trafford as a global landmark.
With the FA expected to submit its Women’s World Cup bid to FIFA by late 2025, the success of United’s stadium plan could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of both English football and international women’s tournaments.
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