World-renowned architects to breathe new life into United’s training ground

Norman Foster, with his firm Foster + Partners, who have designed such iconic places as Wembley Stadium, Berlin’s Reichstag and Apple Park in California are now set to design something much closer to home,  Manchester United’s Carrington Training Ground.

Mr Foster, who was born in Reddish, is used to designing beautiful things.

This time around, he’s taking on Manchester United’s training ground which is due for a huge revamp if the club is to match up with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s big ambitions for the club.

What’s planned for the revamp at Carrington?

Architecture studio Foster + Partners has begun a significant renovation of the men’s first-team building at Manchester United’s Carrington training complex.

The project, led by the renowned architect and Manchester native Norman Foster, started this week, marking a new chapter for the club’s training facilities.

It is approximated that it will cost £50m.

Born in Reddish in 1935, Foster expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that the design embodies “the spirit of industry, grit, and ambition that exemplifies both Manchester and Manchester United.”

He added, “As a proud Mancunian, it is a particular honour for me to see Foster + Partners given this responsibility.”

“A world-class football facility”

This ambitious project aims to transform the interior of the building into a “world-class football facility.”

The initial focus will be on creating more streamlined interiors for the gym, medical, nutrition, and recovery areas.

Renderings released by Foster + Partners depict open-plan spaces with a sandy hue, illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows and adorned with potted plants.

Ronaldo’s comments on Carrington Training Ground

Christiano Ronaldo didn’t hold back in an interview with Piers Morgan during his time at the club, saying the facilities hadn’t changed since his first stint at the club.

Ronaldo spent six years at the club between 2003 and 2009 before joining Real Madrid and he made a sensational return 12 years later.

However, Ronaldo was far from pleased with the lack of progress and investment he saw at the training ground when he made his return.

You have to wonder if these comments have prompted the huge, and admittedly, impressive revamp of the facilities.

Jim Ratcliffe’s comments

Club co-owner Jim Ratcliffe explained the necessity of the renovation: “When we conducted a thorough review of the Carrington training facilities and met with our men’s first team players, it was clear 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.”

Broader developments at Carrington

The renovation is part of broader developments at Carrington, including the recent opening of the Manchester United Women and Academy building in October 2023.

The Foster + Partners project is expected to last through the next football season, with temporary adaptations made to the rest of the Carrington site to accommodate players and staff during the renovation.

The revamped Carrington Training Ground promises to be a state-of-the-art facility, reflecting the club’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Perhaps the stadium is next for a revamp.

It seems like it’s about time!

You can find out more about the Carrington Training Ground development by clicking here