Manchester United’s recent shirt sponsor, Snapdragon, has expressed interest in potentially buying naming rights for the club’s new stadium. The tech company, which recently secured a lucrative deal with United, sees the stadium as a potential branding opportunity. As the club looks to upgrade their facilities, Snapdragon is open to the idea of having their name associated with the historic Old Trafford.
Despite the interest from Snapdragon, there is an understanding that Old Trafford holds a special place in the hearts of Manchester United fans. Don McGuire, chief marketing officer of Snapdragon’s parent company, Qualcomm, acknowledges the importance of preserving the heritage of Old Trafford. While discussing the possibility of naming rights, he emphasizes that Old Trafford should always remain as it is, regardless of any branding opportunities that may arise.
There have been discussions within the club about the construction of a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000, located behind the current Old Trafford. This ambitious project is estimated to cost over £2 billion and is expected to take around six years to complete. The new stadium proposal has garnered support from key figures within the club, including new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Funding the Project
As Manchester United looks for ways to finance the stadium redevelopment, selling naming rights has emerged as a potential solution. The club remains committed to involving supporters in any decision-making process regarding the stadium. While sponsorship opportunities like the one presented by Snapdragon are being considered, United is focused on ensuring that any changes align with the values and traditions of the club.
The potential for a new sponsor to acquire naming rights for Manchester United’s stadium represents a significant opportunity for both the club and the sponsor. As discussions continue around the future of Old Trafford and the proposed new stadium, it will be crucial for all parties involved to balance innovation with respect for the club’s history. Any decisions made regarding the stadium’s branding must take into account the sentiments of the fans and the legacy of Manchester United.