Old Trafford fan zone turns matchday demand into permanent asset
Manchester United plan to open Old Trafford’s first permanent fan zone this autumn, creating a 1,300-capacity matchday destination that will expand food, drink and entertainment revenue while the club advance plans for a new stadium.
Manchester United have unveiled plans for the first permanent matchday fan zone at Old Trafford, extending their investment in supporter facilities while creating additional commercial opportunities around food, drink and entertainment.Named The Paddock, the free-to-enter venue will sit 15 metres behind the Stretford End and accommodate up to 1,300 ticket holders before and after home matches, subject to planning approval.Manchester United director of fan engagement Rick McGagh said: “We are delighted that in partnership with Levy, we have implemented a wide range of changes to enhance matchdays, bringing greater choice and better service for supporters across the stadium, something fans have told us they want.“The proposed fan zone is the latest example of our continued investment in the atmosphere, fan experience and facilities at Old Trafford, while progressing plans for a new world-class stadium.”The venue is expected to open during the autumn and will offer local food, drink and live entertainment, giving United a dedicated space designed to extend the time supporters spend around the stadium on matchdays.The Paddock follows trials of a 1,000-capacity pop-up pub during the 2025-26 season, with strong supporter demand encouraging the club to develop a larger and permanent operation.United selected the name following consultation with their Fan Experience working group, drawing on the historic standing terrace beside the Stretford End that was previously known as The Paddock.The project forms part of United’s multiyear partnership with Levy, which is also delivering additional draught beer taps, self-service bars and a wider food and drink range throughout Old Trafford.Although the fan zone will only operate on matchdays, it provides United with new hospitality and concession inventory while improving crowd distribution around the stadium before kick-off and after the final whistle.The investment is proceeding alongside plans for a new 100,000-capacity stadium approximately 350 metres north-west of Old Trafford, with United having secured most of the required land and targeting a planning application within the next 12 to 18 months.The Paddock will therefore serve as both an immediate matchday upgrade and a test of the supporter-led commercial concepts that could shape United’s proposed stadium district.