Manchester United have confirmed that work to modernise the club's Carrington Training Complex will officially begin next week.

The club's new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe said that the Red Devils "had fallen behind" some of their rivals when it comes to training facilities.

Foster + Partners, led by Lord Norman Foster, have been appointed as the project leaders, with all areas of the building set to be refurbished in the £50m plans.

"We want to create a world class environment for our teams to win. When we conducted a thorough review of the Carrington training facilities and met with our men's first team players, it was clear the standards had fallen below some of our peers," Ratcliffe said in a statement published on Man United's official website.

"This project will ensure Manchester United's training ground is once more renovated to the highest standards.

© Reuters

Carrington to receive £50m revamp

"Lord Foster, a fellow Mancunian, has brought some great inspiration to the design, in conjunction with the Manchester United team and we look forward to seeing the improvement to the facilities but most importantly on the pitch."

Meanwhile, Lord Foster added: "We are delighted to lead the renewal of Manchester United's training facility in Carrington.

"Our aim is to modernise and revitalise the building as a catalyst for future footballing success, creating spaces that inspire a culture of collaboration, unity and belonging.

"As a proud Mancunian, it is a particular honour for me to see Foster + Partners given this responsibility and we will ensure that our design captures the spirit of industry, grit and ambition that exemplifies both Manchester and Manchester United."

Foster + Partners reshaped Wembley Stadium and the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, and the planned work is due to start next week, with Ratcliffe already making his mark at the club.

© Reuters

Ratcliffe admits that "standards had fallen"

Man United's official website revealed that the planned works will last the entirety of the 2024-25 campaign, and there will be focus on the gym, medical facilities, nutrition and recovery areas.

Ratcliffe's plans for Old Trafford have not been firmed up at this stage, but it has been suggested that he wants to build a new stadium to compete with the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

Cristiano Ronaldo was heavily critical of Man United's development both on and off the field during his explosive interview with Piers Morgan in the latter stages of his time at the club.

A decision has allegedly now been reached on Erik ten Hag's future, with the Dutchman set to remain as head coach this summer.

Man United are now working towards pre-season, with their preparations for the 2024-25 campaign set to officially begin against Rosenborg in the middle of next month.