Manchester United has officially opened its newly upgraded Carrington Training Complex, following a £50 million transformation led by renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners.
Originally constructed in 1999 and expanded in 2013, the facility has been completely reimagined to deliver a state-of-the-art, high-performance environment for both players and staff. The overhaul, which began in June 2024, was completed just days before the 2025–26 Premier League season kicks off.
A Vision Rooted in Manchester’s Spirit
Foster + Partners founder Norman Foster, a Manchester native, previously said the redesign aimed to embody the “industry, grit and ambition” synonymous with both the city and the club.
The upgraded site, located 9km from Old Trafford, now features:
- A striking umbrella-style roof
- A cutting-edge gym with an altitude training room
- Hydrotherapy pools for recovery
- Modernised changing rooms with integrated touchscreens for player communication
- Advanced medical suites equipped with MRI and CT scanners
- Dedicated spaces for player recovery and wellbeing — even a private hairdressing room for visiting barbers
Light, Space, and Player Wellbeing
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of natural light, achieved by enlarging windows and adding rooflights to the previously dim interiors. Timber panelling, open-plan layouts, and energy-efficient building systems now create an atmosphere designed to enhance player health and performance.
Nigel Dancey, head of studio at Foster + Partners, explained:
“Every element has been honed to optimise players’ health and wellbeing, with open spaces, daylight, and natural materials creating an intuitive journey through the building.”
Strategic Investment Beyond Facilities
The Carrington upgrade is part of Manchester United’s wider investment strategy under billionaire co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, who described the old ground-floor layout as “gloomy” and unsuitable for a club with top-level ambitions.
The club is also pursuing plans for a new 100,000-capacity stadium, while making significant player acquisitions this summer — including Benjamin Sesko (£73.7m), Matheus Cunha (£62.5m), and Bryan Mbeumo (£65m).
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IMAGE: Foster+ Partners
