'Man United must clear big new hurdle as stadium problem emerges'
03/21/2025 03:00 AM
Man United have unveiled plans to build a replacement for Old Trafford in a project Sir Jim Ratcliffe hopes will deliver the “world’s greatest” stadium.
The new ground will hold 100,000 fans and cost £2billion – but will deliver £7.3billion in benefits for the local economy, say the club.
The plans feature three masts which architects say will be up to 200m high and visible for 25 miles around, as well as a huge covered area which will be used to house a museum and fan zone.
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – has suggested a potential hurdle for Man United as they look to start work on the project.
Man United stadium ‘tent poles’ could prove a problem, says Wyness
According to the Daily Mail (16 March), United need permission from Manchester Aiport before pressing ahead with the plans – with contact not yet made.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, Wyness insisted the aviation implications will be a big consideration in the club’s plans.
Manchester Aiport is just four miles away from Old Trafford and planes fly over the current ground on a regular basis.
| Ranking | Stadium | Capacity |
| 1 | Old Trafford (Man United) | 74,197 |
| 2 | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (Tottenham) | 62,850 |
| 3 | London Stadium (West Ham) | 62,500 |
| 4 | Anfield (Liverpool) | 61,276 |
| 5 | Emirates Stadium (Arsenal) | 60,704 |
| 6 | Etihad Stadium (Man City) | 52,900 |
Wyness told Football Insider's Inside Track podcast: "The Civil Aviation Authority in the UK will have to okay these plans.
"The height of the tent poles in the artist's impressions may impact what they think, and it will certainly be taken into account.
"In every stadium project I've been involved in, the flight path has been considered.
"It is not that far away from Manchester Airport, so it will be a consideration – especially if there are emergencies.
"It's just one of many planning considerations that will have to be taken.
"Manchester Aiport will be a key partner in this process."
Man United don’t want Sancho to return this summer
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed (19 March) that Man United are unlikely to be open to a Jadon Sancho return in the summer transfer window.
Chelsea have an obligation to buy the 24-year-old for £25million when his loan spell comes to an end – but can pay a fee to cancel the deal if they wish.
However, sources say Chelsea are certain to sign Sancho if they qualify for next season's Champions League.
United are keen for the sale of the former Borussia Dortmund star to go through despite sacking Erik ten Hag late last year.
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The post 'Man United must clear big new hurdle as stadium problem emerges' appeared first on Football Insider.
