Paul Merson ‘Flabbergasted’ by Manchester United’s Plans for New Ground
Former Arsenal Star Questions the Logic Behind United’s Potential Move
Former Arsenal midfielder and football pundit Paul Merson has expressed his astonishment at reports that Manchester United are considering building a new stadium to replace the iconic Old Trafford. Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson described the potential move as “absolutely baffling,” questioning the logic behind abandoning one of football’s most historic venues.
Manchester United’s Stadium Dilemma
Manchester United’s owners, the INEOS group led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, have been exploring options to revamp or replace Old Trafford as part of a long-term infrastructure project. Reports indicate that one proposal under serious consideration is constructing a brand-new, state-of-the-art stadium, potentially on land near the current site.
The idea of demolishing Old Trafford and starting fresh has sparked debate among fans, former players, and pundits alike. While some believe a modern stadium could help United keep pace with clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City in terms of facilities and revenue generation, others see it as an unnecessary move that disregards the club’s rich history.
Paul Merson’s Reaction
Merson did not hold back in his criticism of the plan, stating:
> “I’m absolutely flabbergasted. This is Old Trafford we’re talking about—one of the greatest football stadiums in the world. Why on earth would Manchester United want to knock it down and start from scratch?”
He went on to emphasize that while renovations are understandable, completely moving away from Old Trafford would be “madness.”
> “Look, I get that the stadium needs work. It’s not in the best condition, and other clubs have better facilities now. But surely, you don’t just scrap over 100 years of history because of that. Why not do what Liverpool did with Anfield and just expand it?”
Merson also highlighted concerns over the financial burden of such a massive project, especially given that United are still recovering from years of mismanagement under the Glazer family.
> “You’re talking about billions of pounds. If you’re Manchester United, wouldn’t you rather invest that in the squad? They need world-class players, not a shiny new stadium. Fans want trophies, not fancy seats.”
Fans Split on the Debate
United supporters have been vocal about their feelings on social media, with opinions divided. Some agree with Merson, arguing that Old Trafford should be modernized rather than replaced. Others believe the club has fallen behind in terms of infrastructure and needs a stadium fit for the modern era.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
> “I love Old Trafford, but let’s be real—it’s outdated. We need a stadium that competes with the best in Europe.”
Another countered:
> “United without Old Trafford is like Barcelona without the Camp Nou. You don’t just demolish history.”
What Are United’s Options?
The club’s leadership has yet to make a final decision, but the following options are reportedly being considered:
1. Renovation of Old Trafford – A phased redevelopment to modernize facilities while keeping the stadium intact.
2. Complete Rebuild on the Same Site – Demolishing Old Trafford and constructing a new stadium in its place.
3. New Stadium on Nearby Land – Building a fresh venue close to the current ground, similar to what Juventus did with their stadium move.
Each option presents its own challenges, from financial feasibility to fan sentiment.
Merson’s Final Verdict
Summing up his thoughts, Merson concluded:
> “Manchester United have made a lot of strange decisions in the last decade, but this would be up there with the worst. You don’t just destroy an institution like Old Trafford. If it happens, I think a lot of fans will be furious.”
As United continue to weigh their options, one thing is clear: the debate over Old Trafford’s future is only just beginning, and opinions—like Paul Merson’s—are as strong as ever.