Gary Neville has criticised the Glazers after Old Trafford was not included in the UK and Ireland’s Euro 2028 bid. Despite being the largest domestic stadium in Britain, with a capacity of 74,310, it failed to make the ten-team list submitted. Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, which has a capacity of 61,000, was viewed as a more suitable modern ground for the bid. The uncertainty surrounding Manchester United’s takeover situation and possible stadium upgrades ultimately ruled Old Trafford out. Neville called it a “dereliction of duty” on the Glazers’ part and claimed that they have overseen a decline in the stadium for 20 years. United have been up for sale since last year, although the Glazers have launched a third round of bidding after failing to get the price they desire.
Neville believes that the Glazers must leave as soon as possible to allow new owners to come in and put United back to where it should be, both on and off the pitch. The UK and Ireland’s Euro 2028 bid will go up against Turkey for hosting honours. The bid features Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Villa Park, St James’ Park, Hampden Park, Dublin Arena and Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. Everton’s new Bramley Moore Dock stadium and Belfast’s Casement Park are also included, although both are yet to be completed. The Glazer family could yet stay at Old Trafford.