Manchester United Urged to Heed Everton’s Tradition-Blending Stadium Approach by Ian Herbert

Everton’s New Stadium: A Masterclass in Honoring History
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Everton’s upcoming Bramley Moore Dock stadium stands as a testament to fan-driven design and respect for heritage—a stark contrast to Manchester United’s futuristic £2bn “Eiffel Tower of the North” concept. While United’s plans boast a “trident” of masts and a sprawling canopy, Everton prioritized intimacy and history, consulting thousands of supporters to recreate Goodison Park’s magic.

Fan-Crafted Legacy

In 2025, 25,000 Evertonians attended a test event at the new 52,888-seat stadium, discovering steep stands designed to mirror Goodison’s electrifying atmosphere. The design emerged from workshops hosted by architect Dan Meis in a parish hall near Goodison Road, where fans demanded a “fortress” feel. Over 10,000 supporters contributed via surveys, steering the club away from the pitfalls West Ham faced with their soulless London Stadium.

Nods to Goodison’s Roots

The stadium honors Archibald Leitch, Goodison’s original architect, through engraved criss-cross balcony patterns, brickwork, and aluminum panels. The home end, holding 12,000-15,000 fans, is steeper and closer to the pitch than Borussia Dortmund’s famed “Yellow Wall.” Exterior materials like brick and wood blend seamlessly with the dockland setting, fulfilling Meis’ vision of a structure that feels “grown from the dock.”

A Warning to Manchester United

Meis critiqued United’s flashy Norman Foster-designed plans, urging clubs to avoid “giant, over-the-top” venues disconnected from local identity. Everton’s project focused on proximity to the pitch and simplicity: “No fuss,” Meis emphasized. “This is about proper football, not commercial distractions.”

Overcoming Obstacles

Approved amid COVID-19 lockdowns, the stadium’s budget was safeguarded by securing materials early. While rivals chase “super stadiums” blending leisure and football, Everton’s plaza—capable of hosting 17,000—prioritizes community. A restored Grade II-listed dock building anchors the site, echoing the club’s anthem: “Everton knows its history.”

Final Thoughts
As United eye a reboot, Everton’s blueprint proves stadiums can marry ambition with soul. For Meis, it’s a love letter to English football—one he hopes others will emulate.

Images: Daily Mail | Words: Adapted from Ian Herbert