Man Utd to transform outdated training HQ into ‘world-class’ facility

• Published On: 14 June 2024 at 19:49

Manchester United will begin a £50 million ($64 million) refurbishment of their creaky Carrington training complex next week, with the goal of transforming it into a "world-class" facility.

The Premier League club stated in a statement on Friday that British architects Foster + Partners will head a project to restore all aspects of the structure to "support future success".

It comes after a study of training facilities indicated that standards had dropped below competitors', as well as the opening of a cutting-edge women's and academy complex last year.

"We want to create a world-class environment for our teams to win," said Jim Ratcliffe, United's co-owner.



"We undertook a thorough examination of the Carrington training facilities and talked with our men's first-team players, and it was evident that the standards had slipped below those of our contemporaries.

"This project will ensure Manchester United's training ground is once more renovated to the highest standards," he stated.

The renovation is planned to extend throughout the 2024/25 season, with temporary alterations made to accommodate players and personnel.


Norman Foster, a household name in worldwide architecture, has pledged to create a design that reflects the "spirit of industry, grit, and ambition" of both the club and city.

Foster developed some of the world's most recognisable buildings, including Hong Kong's HSBC Building, London's "Gherkin" tower, and Berlin's renovated Reichstag.

"As a proud Mancunian, it is a particular honour for me to see Foster + Partners given this responsibility and we will ensure that our design captures the spirit of industry, grit and ambition that exemplifies both Manchester and Manchester United," said the architect.

The study of the club's facilities also discovered problems at Old Trafford, where a rainfall during last month's 1-0 Premier League defeat by Arsenal revealed a leaking roof.

Ratcliffe is considering whether to refurbish the present venue or build a new one on adjacent land.

The British businessman took over football operations at Old Trafford after buying a 27.7 percent share in the club earlier this year.

United have made significant changes to their backroom personnel in recent months, but manager Erik ten Hag is expected to remain in his position following a postseason performance assessment.


The Dutchman's disastrous second season finished on a high one, as he led United to a surprise 2-1 FA Cup final triumph over rivals Manchester City.