Located within the Carrington Training Complex, Foster + Partners was tasked with modernising Manchester United men’s first team training facilities. Working closely with the club, the practice completely rethought the existing building – built in 1999 – with a focus on creating a high-performance collaborative environment for players and staff. All areas were refurbished to deliver a world-class football facility with a positive culture to support future success.
While the building’s structure was largely retained, its envelope has been modified in places to incorporate large windows and rooflights, which bring natural light directly into the centre of the floor plate. Timber panelling contributes to a feeling of warmth and timelessness, while new integrated MEP systems improve the building’s performance and energy efficiency, as well as the user experience.
The design facilitates constant care, monitoring, and support for players. A separate players' entrance – on the south side of the building – is designed to provide an effortless journey from the car park to the dressing room area. Its expansive glass façade and entrance canopy transform the experience of arrival. The ground floor of the building features a hydration and nutrition space, a gym with an altitude room and hydrotherapy pools, as well as new changing areas, medical suites with MRI and CT scanners, and recovery spaces.
A striking spiral staircase takes players to the main lounge on the first floor, which features a continuous glass façade and an outdoor terrace overlooking the pitches. A dining area in the centre of the lounge connects with a state-of-the-art kitchen to support players’ nutrition. Open plan offices for coaching staff are positioned on the north and south sides of the building – and there is also a briefing room for post-match feedback. A separate area for media on the upper level includes a conference room for press briefings and a studio for TV and video content.
