Manchester United have requested that their opening Premier League match of the 2026-27 season be played away from home as major renovation work takes place at Old Trafford.
The club has begun digging up the famous Old Trafford pitch for the first time since 2012, marking the start of the most significant overhaul of the playing surface in 14 years.
Footage emerging from stadium tours has revealed the extent of the project, with the entire pitch removed as ground staff work to install a brand-new surface ahead of the new campaign.
United reportedly asked the Premier League to schedule their first match away from Old Trafford in order to give workers sufficient time to complete the renovation. The request was accepted, with the Red Devils set to begin the season away at Hull City.
The project is not simply about replacing the grass. Reports suggest the work is also linked to improvements in player safety around the pitch area. Concerns were raised following an injury incident involving Benjamin Šeško late last season, prompting the club to review the stadium’s pitch-side layout and protective measures.
As part of the renovation, Manchester United are expected to install new safety features while modernizing the playing surface to meet the highest standards.
Old Trafford has been Manchester United’s home since 1910 and remains one of the most iconic stadiums in world football. While routine maintenance takes place every year, a complete removal and replacement of the pitch is a rare event.
Club officials reportedly have around ten weeks to complete the work before United’s first home fixture of the season.
The renovation has already generated significant discussion among supporters, with many viewing it as a symbolic fresh start after a difficult campaign. Images of the famous pitch being completely torn up quickly spread across social media, sparking excitement about the club’s preparations for the new season.
With work continuing behind the scenes, Manchester United will hope the new playing surface provides the perfect foundation for a stronger campaign as they look to return to competing at the highest level.
