Slaughter and May, the London-based law firm that advised Everton on the construction of their new 52,769-capacity stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, is now supporting Manchester United with early-stage plans for a proposed 100,000-seater stadium to replace Old Trafford.
Everton's Stadium and Legal Challenges
Slaughter and May assisted Everton with aspects of construction, financing, real estate, and planning for their new waterfront home, as well as the future of Goodison Park, which has been retained for use by Everton Women. The firm has also been retained by Everton for their appeal against Burnley after a Premier League commission ordered the Blues to pay £35 million in damages and interest for breaching profit and sustainability regulations (PSR) during the 2021/22 season.
Burnley argued that the breach impacted their chances of staying in the Premier League and sought compensation for losses associated with relegation. The Turf Moor outfit was awarded £26 million in damages and a further £9 million in interest. Everton responded by stating they were “surprised and angered by the decision” and claimed “this ruling sets a dangerous and unworkable precedent for English football.”
The same panel that handed Everton a 10-point deduction in November 2023 – the largest sporting sanction in English top-flight history at that time – delivered the verdict. That panel included David Phillips KC, Alan Greenwood, and Nick Igoe. Their decision was later overturned on appeal, with Everton receiving four points back after the appeal board found they “made legal errors” on two grounds.
Manchester United's New Stadium Plans
According to a report in the Manchester Evening News, Slaughter and May is supporting Manchester United on early-stage construction and procurement aspects of their proposed 100,000-seater stadium. Earlier this week, United announced the acquisition of a 25-acre plot of land, allowing plans for the new stadium to proceed.
The article notes that Slaughter and May already has a close relationship with Ineos, having advised Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s company on the acquisition of a minority stake in United two years ago. However, no broader appointment of any firm has yet been made for the stadium project, given the process is still in its infancy.
Other Clients and Impact
Slaughter and May is also advising UEFA Conference League winners Crystal Palace on their stadium redevelopment at Selhurst Park, including a new 13,500-seat main stand. Everton manager David Moyes, speaking to talkSPORT as a World Cup pundit, said, “I felt that we had paid our dues,” and revealed that owners The Friedkin Group assured him the Burnley ruling would not negatively impact his summer transfer budget.
