New Old Trafford due on FA's stadiums list this week for 2035 Women's World Cup

"The Football Association is planning to include a redeveloped Old Trafford in the UK's bid book of stadiums to host matches at the 2035 Women's World Cup, which will be made public this week. Old Trafford is in line to feature in the bid even though Manchester United's plans for a new 100,000-seat stadium amount only to artists' impressions and there are doubts over how the projected 2bn project will be funded."

"The UK is the sole bidder for the 2035 World Cup, with the United States lined earmarked to host in 2031 with Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica, but must submit a formal bid for Fifa's approval. With the Women's World Cup following the men's format in expanding to 48 teams in 2031, about 15 stadiums will be required but more will feature in the bid book, which is not binding."

"United have aspirations for Old Trafford to stage the final, although that is regarded as premature by the FA. Wembley would also have strong claims but United will argue that a 100,000 capacity and superior fan experience, assuming the Old Trafford rebuild takes place as planned, should give them the edge. Final decisions related to stadiums are made by Fifa."

The Football Association plans to include a redeveloped Old Trafford in the UK's bid book for hosting matches at the 2035 Women's World Cup. Manchester United's proposals for a new 100,000-seat stadium currently exist only as artists' impressions and the projected 2bn project lacks confirmed funding. Old Trafford was overlooked for the 2028 men's European Championship due to dated facilities and possible future redevelopment. Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is one of nine venues chosen for that tournament and will host England's opening game. The UK is the sole bidder for 2035 but must submit a formal bid for FIFA approval. The expanded 48-team format will require about 15 stadiums, the bid book is non-binding, and FIFA will make final stadium and scheduling decisions by 2030. United hope the rebuilt Old Trafford could be close to opening by then and aspire to stage the final, while Wembley also has strong claims.

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