Man Utd to transform outdated training HQ into ‘world-class’ facility
Manchester United plans to turn their ageing Carrington training facility into a “world-class” facility, and they will begin work on the project next week, spending £50 million ($64 million).
The Premier League team said in a statement on Friday that all areas of the building will be renovated under the direction of British architects Foster + Partners in order to "support future success."
It follows the opening of a cutting-edge women's and academy building last year and a review of training facilities that found standards had dropped below those of rivals.
Co-owner of United, Jim Ratcliffe, stated, "We want to create a world-class environment for our teams to win."
"We met with our men's first-team players and thoroughly inspected the Carrington training facilities, and it was evident the standards had fallen below some of our peers.
“This project will ensure Manchester United’s training ground is once more renovated to the highest standards,” he added.
Temporary accommodations will be made to accommodate players and staff during the anticipated duration of the work, which is the entire 2024–2025 season.
Renowned architect Norman Foster has promised to create a design that captures the “spirit of industry, grit and ambition” of the club and the city.
Some of the most famous structures in the world, such as the rebuilt Reichstag in Berlin, the HSBC Building in Hong Kong, and the "Gherkin" skyscraper in London, were designed by Foster.
Foster + Partners has been entrusted with this task, which the architect described as "a particular honour for me as a proud Mancunian. We will ensure that our design captures the spirit of industry, grit and ambition that exemplifies both Manchester and Manchester United."
The inspection of the team's facilities also revealed problems at Old Trafford, where a downpour during Arsenal's 1-0 Premier League victory last month dramatically revealed the stadium's leaky roof.
Ratcliffe is looking into the possibilities of either renovating the current location or constructing a new one on nearby property.
The British billionaire, who earlier this year acquired a 27.7 percent stake in the club, assumed managerial duties over football operations at Old Trafford.
After a post-season performance review, United has made significant changes to their backroom staff, but manager Erik ten Hag is expected to stay in his position.
The Dutchman's disappointing second season came to an end when he led United to an unexpected 2-1 victory victory in the FA Cup final against rivals Manchester City.