Man Utd Eyes 2035 Women’s World Cup Final at New Stadium

Man Utd Sets Sights on Hosting 2035 Women’s World Cup Final

Manchester United is making bold moves to secure the 2035 Women’s World Cup final at a state-of-the-art new Old Trafford, a £2 billion stadium project that could redefine the football landscape in England. With this ambitious plan, United aims to shift the showpiece event from London’s iconic Wembley Stadium to the heart of Manchester, underscoring the club’s and the city’s determination to become a global hub for football and major international events.

Why Manchester United Wants the Women’s World Cup Final

The motivation behind Manchester United’s push is twofold: to open their modernized stadium with a global event and to position Manchester as England’s premier sporting destination. Senior club officials envision a 100,000-seat arena that surpasses Wembley in capacity, technology, comfort, and fan atmosphere. This vision aligns with Greater Manchester’s comprehensive “Growth Plan,” spearheaded by Mayor Andy Burnham. The strategy targets 15,000 new homes and a revitalized southwest Manchester, with the new stadium serving as a centerpiece.

Old Trafford Regeneration: A Catalyst for Regional Growth

The initial £26 million injection into new housing marks just the beginning of the area’s transformation. Economic experts at Oxford Economics estimate the project could generate £7.3 billion annually for the UK economy, create 92,000 jobs, and attract over 1.8 million additional visitors per year. This regeneration not only benefits football fans but also promises long-term advantages for local communities and the broader region.

Securing the Site: Land Negotiations and Stadium Blueprint

For this vision to become reality, Manchester United must acquire a crucial piece of land behind the Stretford End, currently owned by Freightliner. Ongoing negotiations are pivotal, as this plot would allow the construction of a brand-new super-stadium rather than simply refurbishing the existing Old Trafford. While renovation remains a fallback option, the club’s priority is clear—a complete, modern rebuild to rival the world’s top sports venues.

Man Utd’s Ambitions Clash with FA Tradition

The Football Association has long positioned Wembley as the home of major English football events. However, United’s leadership is ready to challenge this tradition, arguing that the nation’s newest and largest stadium should host the most significant match in women’s football. They are prepared to make a compelling case to both the FA and FIFA, emphasizing the importance of bringing marquee events to the North and showcasing Manchester’s world-class facilities.

Backing from City Leaders and Club Officials

Collette Roche, Manchester United’s Chief Operating Officer, publicly endorsed the regeneration project, highlighting the club’s commitment to delivering a world-leading football stadium. Roche emphasized the broader benefits for business, leisure, and residential development, calling on government support for infrastructure and community growth rather than direct stadium funding.

The Stakes: Economic, Social, and Sporting Impact

Economists project that the redevelopment could transform Manchester’s fortunes—spurring job creation across construction, tourism, and hospitality, while dramatically increasing the city’s profile as a global sporting destination. The new stadium, surrounded by modern infrastructure and vibrant communities, would offer a fitting stage for the world’s premier women’s football event.

Opinion: A New Era for Women’s Football and Northern England

If Manchester United succeeds, the 2035 Women’s World Cup final will be more than a football match—it will symbolize a new era of ambition for women’s football in the UK and balance the focus between North and South. With the promised economic and social benefits, Manchester’s bid deserves serious consideration. Hosting the final at the new Old Trafford would honor the sport’s growing stature and reflect a forward-thinking approach to venue selection. For more news on this developing story and football updates, visit for more news.