Stefan Borson baffled by 'unusual' Man United announcement
03/22/2025 05:00 PM
Man United and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe revealed plans last week to build the "world's greatest stadium" capable of holding 100,000 fans.
Old Trafford has been United's home since 1910 and the club considered refurbishing the stadium but it is not fit for purpose in terms of capacity or facilities.
United's new stadium could cost around £3billion due to the interest costs they will incur during the build process.
However, the club are yet to reveal how they will pay for the project – while the government is helping fund a regeneration project around the blueprint of the ground.
Borson baffled by ‘song and dance’ over Man United stadium plan
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider that it is “unusual to make such a song and dance about a CGI video”.
United released plans featuring an umbrella design and a new public plaza that is "twice the size of Trafalgar Square", as well as three masts described as "the trident" that will be 200 metres high and visible from 25 miles away.
| 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 |
Borson insisted he is still none the wiser as to how the Red Devils will fund the project.
He told Football Insider: "It's quite unusual to make such a song and dance about a CGI video.
"They said in the announcement that there's no plans on funding, it's all CGI, it's going to take eight years.
"And yet, there was a song and dance.
"It's early, they said it was early, and the question is then – why are you making such a big announcement on it?
"Let's wait and see. It would be great for United and great for Manchester. I don't know how they'll fund it, but if it's there – then great."
Man United hatch Mainoo exit plan
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (14 March) that Man United would prefer to sell midfielder Kobbie Mainoo abroad if he chooses to leave the club.
Talks are ongoing with the 19-year-old over a new deal but it has been widely reported that he is ready to reject the offer of a new Old Trafford contract and seek a move away.
Chelsea were linked with Mainoo in the January transfer window and it is believed several other Premier League sides are also monitoring his progress.
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The post Stefan Borson baffled by 'unusual' Man United announcement appeared first on Football Insider.
