Manchester United to Transform Outdated Training HQ into 'World-Class' Facility

Manchester United

Manchester United is set to embark on a £50 million redevelopment of their aging Carrington training headquarters next week, aiming to transform it into a "world-class" facility. The Premier League club announced on Friday that British architects Foster + Partners will spearhead the project, which will refurbish all areas of the building to "support future success."

The decision follows a review of the training facilities that revealed standards had fallen below those of competitors. This initiative comes after the opening of a state-of-the-art women's and academy building last year.

"We want to create a world-class environment for our teams to win," said United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe. "When we conducted a thorough review of the Carrington training facilities and met with our men's first-team players, it was clear the standards had fallen below some of our peers. This project will ensure Manchester United's training ground is once more renovated to the highest standards."

The redevelopment is expected to last throughout the 2024/25 season, with temporary adaptations in place to accommodate players and staff. Norman Foster, a prominent figure in global architecture, has pledged to deliver a design reflecting the "spirit of industry, grit, and ambition" of both the club and the city.

Foster, renowned for designing iconic structures like the HSBC Building in Hong Kong, London's "Gherkin" skyscraper, and the reconstructed Reichstag in Berlin, expressed his honor in leading the project. "As a proud Mancunian, it is a particular honor for me to see Foster + Partners given this responsibility. We will ensure that our design captures the spirit of industry, grit, and ambition that exemplifies both Manchester and Manchester United," he said.

The review of the club's facilities also highlighted issues at Old Trafford. A recent rainstorm during a 1-0 Premier League defeat by Arsenal showcased a leaking roof at the stadium. Ratcliffe is exploring options to either redevelop the existing venue or build a new one on adjacent land.

The British billionaire took control of football operations at Old Trafford following his purchase of a 27.7 percent stake in the club earlier this year. United have made sweeping changes to their backroom staff in recent months, but manager Erik ten Hag is set to remain in his post after a post-season performance review. Ten Hag's second campaign, though challenging, ended on a high note with a 2-1 victory in the FA Cup final against rivals Manchester City.