Manchester United have been undergoing transformation on the pitch and in the backroom, but another key priority loomed large during Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s tenure as manager.
Old Trafford Falls could soon be a thing of the past, with Manchester United’s owners ready to address lingering issues. Long-time owners the Glazer family appear to have made the issue a low priority, but it is claimed that will change with Sir Jim Ratcliffe in charge.
Ratcliffe himself was not quick to take action. The British billionaire’s investment was announced midway through the 2023/24 season, with a new stadium mooted as a goal for the club ahead of recent talks about redeveloping the current site.
According to The Sun, UEFA rules could force owners to take action at this point. Work to improve Old Trafford’s drainage system is one of a number of changes being proposed as United aim to return to European competition, with plans also to renovate the pitch and improve both dugouts.
In May 2024, it was revealed that United were postponing direct work on the roof until a decision was made regarding the future of Old Trafford. Heavy rain and storms during a match against Arsenal earlier in the month left some areas flooded, and the club suggested at the time that the stadium’s siphonic roof drainage system had overflowed, causing a waterfall-like situation.
This was not the first time the club dealt with such a scenario at the famous stadium. Ahead of the 2019 Manchester derby, water was seen pouring from the roof onto the seats after a nearby thunderstorm.
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Earlier in the year, Ratcliffe spoke of discussions about renovating United’s home. “The two most talked about issues at Manchester United are firstly the football, performance on the pitch and secondly the stadium,” he said. “So far we think there is a very good case for renovating Old Trafford, probably at a cost of around £1 billion.”
Coach Ruben Amorim’s side lost the Europa League final last season, finishing in the bottom half of the Premier League, and have not played in any European competition this season. However, things could be very different by this time next year.
One of United’s potential routes to Europe has disappeared thanks to their shock Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Grimsby Town. However, they could secure a European spot depending on their league position, while they will begin their FA Cup campaign in January with the aim of reclaiming the title they won in 2024.
Amorim and his players lost to Aston Villa on Sunday, missing out on a chance to spend Christmas Day in the top five. However, they are in a good position in seventh place, just three points out of the Champions League places.
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