The quintet of former Manchester United Football Club (MUFC) stars behind the highly-anticipated Hotel Football project – near the club's Old Trafford stadium – have named 8 December as the official launch date.
The five players –
Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville – who together with David Beckham are often referred to as 'Fergie’s Fledglings', are the main backers behind the estimated £23m (US$38.7m, €28.3m) complex, which will also serve as the Old Trafford Supporters' Club (OTSC).
Giggs, who is now MUFC assistant manager after hanging up his boots last season, has said that the new hotel aims to offer something for United’s loyal fans and the local community, but will also try to appeal to a wider market through a range of offerings.
The 8,000sq m (86,111sq ft) building – designed by AEW Architects – will incorporate a 133-bedroom hotel with public space for OTSC members and spectators, a new Café Football and a club shop.
Giggs, who along with Gary Neville has been the main driver of the project through the pair’s company GG Hospitality, said: “Gary and I have spent so much of our lives playing at Old Trafford and appreciate everyone who supported us there over the years.
“To make sure the hotel appeals to everyone, not just football fans, we are working with some of the most talented people in the industry to create something unique and inviting – with a focus on excellent customer service and nurturing young talent.”
The 11-storey Hotel Football will be ran by general manager Stewart Davies, who has previously headed up Manchester venues the Mint Hotel and the Hilton Double Tree.
