Old Trafford not included in Euro 2028 bid
By Tom Gott
The British and Irish bid to host Euro 2028 will name Manchester City's Etihad Stadium as a potential host venue, but not Manchester United's Old Trafford.
An initial list of 14 stadiums must be trimmed down to ten ahead of next week's official submission and concerns over the modernity of Old Trafford will see the United ground dropped from the list.
A United statement also confirmed uncertainty over the stadium's availability during potential redevelopment work also contributed to the decision to dismiss Old Trafford as a possible host venue.
"Manchester United were pleased to put Old Trafford forward as a potential host of UEFA Euro 2028 matches and proud of the strong case we made," a statement read.
“However, during follow-up discussions with the FA, it became clear that we were unable to provide the necessary certainty around the availability of Old Trafford due to potential redevelopment of the stadium. As a result, we have mutually agreed to withdraw from the shortlist of potential hosts.
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“We are committed to maintaining Old Trafford’s status as the largest and most iconic club football ground in England and look forward to future opportunities to host international matches and major events at ‘the Theatre of Dreams’.
“Everyone at Manchester United wishes the FA the best of luck with the bid to host the tournament in 2028.”
United officials are currently considering their options when it comes to expending, redeveloping or rebuilding Old Trafford - a process which has been delayed following the Glazers' decision to put the club up for sale.
As a result, Old Trafford will not make it onto the final venue shortlist, with the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium the only other London site included in the final ten.
However, Spurs' stadium could be removed and replaced by West Ham's London Stadium if they agree a naming rights deal with any organisation as UEFA rules demand all venues are unbranded and neutral.
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