Manchester United's new shirt sponsor, Snapdragon, has expressed interest in acquiring naming rights for a new Old Trafford stadium.
The club is planning to rebuild the historic 114-year-old ground, with plans expected to be submitted by the end of the year.
United have not ruled out selling the naming rights for the new stadium. Snapdragon, which has sponsored United's shirts since last month, is open to the idea. Don McGuire, Snapdragon's chief marketing officer, emphasized the importance of retaining the Old Trafford name. McGuire said:
"Old Trafford is Old Trafford, it should always be Old Trafford. But if there is a brand attached to that in some way, shape or form, powered by someone, an 'at' or whatever..."
McGuire added that Snapdragon is working closely with United on enhancing the technology and innovation at both Old Trafford and Carrington, United's training ground. This partnership could lead to a more significant collaboration, including potential naming rights for the new stadium.
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Global expansion and fan engagement
Snapdragon is also keen on expanding United's global reach, particularly in China and India. McGuire stated:
"Manchester United’s biggest fanbase is in China: 253 million fans. And so China is a huge market for my company and Snapdragon brand... We’d love for them to play in China and India."
Snapdragon recently replaced TeamViewer as United's shirt sponsor in a £180 million ($230m) three-year deal, with an option to extend for two more years. Despite any potential on-field setbacks, McGuire affirmed that the sponsorship deal remains strong.
As United moves forward with their plans for a new stadium, the collaboration with Snapdragon promises to bring exciting changes and innovations to enhance the fan experience and stadium operations.
