Manchester United and Chelsea are facing a problem that they cannot ignore. Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge, while rich in history, are not suitable for a sustainable future in their current states. Plans are being made for other clubs to modernize and increase their stadium capacities, but these plans come with a huge financial commitment.
Neither Manchester United nor Chelsea can realistically transform Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge and have change left from £1billion, a figure in line with what it cost Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid to build new stadiums. Rising costs, changing expectations, and the need to generate revenue have drastically increased the price of modern construction projects.
Stadiums and stands are no longer designed as basic, empty shells just for Saturday afternoons but need to be a driving force for revenue. A new stadium has transformed revenue for clubs like Tottenham and Arsenal, making them more competitive. Plans for the redevelopment of Old Trafford are being considered, with a focus on creating an amazing fan experience.
Feasibility studies for these projects can take a year, and it typically takes between two and three years from the design and approval process to the start of construction. The eventual cost is influenced by factors such as inflation, groundwork scope, and location. These modern construction projects are a big investment for clubs as they look to stay competitive.