Old Trafford omitted from Euro 2028 bid as Glazers couldn't guarantee stadium redevelopment

The organisers of the United Kingdom and Ireland’s bid for the 2028 European Championship have unveiled the list of ten stadiums.

It notably excludes Manchester United’s Old Trafford and Liverpool’s Anfield, both of which were expected to be included.

According to journalist Laurie Whitwell, the Theatre of Dreams failed to make a ten-stadium shortlist as the Red Devils ‘couldn’t guarantee the stadium would be available due to planned upgrades.’

Despite being one of the most iconic stadiums in England, Old Trafford’s omission comes as no major surprise for Man United fans, who are familiar with the venue’s infrastructural shortcomings.

Old Trafford’s condition has deteriorated significantly since its last renovation in 2006. As a result, its future has become a crucial aspect of the club’s takeover saga.

Whether it would be more cost-effective to renovate the current stadium or build a new home for Man United remains one of the sticking points after the Glazers’ continuous refusals to upgrade the venue.

Rightfully accused of neglecting the issue, the Glazers have been mere spectators, watching the ground’s decaying facilities under public scrutiny.

Unfortunately for the Red Devils faithful, the owners’ lacklustre approach regarding the stadium’s renovation will deny them the privilege of watching the Euro 2028 at Old Trafford should the UK and Ireland’s bid go through.

The ground lags well behind Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, which has got the nod, adding insult to injury.

But if it’s any comfort, United’s arch-rivals Liverpool won’t be among the hosts either, as Everton’s as-yet-unbuilt new venue on Bramley-Moore Dock has got the upper hand over Anfield.

Although Anfield has undergone several upgrades in recent years, outshining the Toffees’ ageing Goodison Park, it will stand no chance against their neighbours’ new facility.

As for other stadiums in England, Wembley Stadium is the star of the show, alongside Tottenham Hotspur’s flashy new arena.

Aston Villa’s Villa Park and Newcastle United’s St James’ Park are the two remaining English venues on this list.

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