Ratcliffe Funds World Class Carrington Upgrade

Manchester United unveils a major upgrade to the Carrington training base funded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Ratcliffe funds world class Carrington upgrade

Manchester United completed a major upgrade to the Carrington training base during the 2024-25 season. The facility was redesigned by Foster + Partners and funded by Ratcliffe as part of his 300 million dollar investment in the club. The project adds a light, open design, enhanced medical spaces and a barbers area next to the restaurant. Ratcliffe attended a ribbon cutting and said the complex now stands alongside Coca-Cola and Apple among world brands.

The club says the work was delivered on budget and on time and was part of a broader plan to refresh the Old Trafford stadium district. Collette Roche, the chief operating officer, noted the team managed a complex project while keeping operations running and highlighted the wellbeing focus for players.

A major training base upgrade signals ambition but also invites scrutiny. Ratcliffe's stake puts a high profile investor in the club's narrative, which can draw questions about budget, transfer strategy and public reaction. The branding emphasis turns the facility into a global statement rather than a purely local improvement.

If the on field results match the scale of the project, it could set a template for competitive clubs. Yet there is a risk fans see this as marketing unless it translates into top four finishes and success in major competitions. The real test will be how this investment aligns with the squad and the club's longer term finances.

Highlights

The true test will be on the field and in the balance sheet.