BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) -- Plans for the first ever Manchester United Experience Center were unveiled on Wednesday in Beijing's historic Qianmen district, as the club looks to expand its fanbase in China.
Club legends Peter Schmeichel, Dimitar Berbatov and Wes Brown were on hand at the opening ceremony for the preview center, which will open next year and will be followed by similar facilities in Shanghai, Shenyang and elsewhere, as the club looks to capitalize on its estimated 100 million Chinese fans.
"Our fan base has grown very significantly recent years, and that's something we're very proud of. Having our fans engaged is one of the most important issue right now," said Manchester United's group managing director Richard Arnold.
Constructed in tandem with Chinese real estate firm Harves Entertainment, the facility is to include several immersive and interactive exhibits, such as a full-scale replica of the club's Old Trafford stadium. The club is also set to release a Chinese-language app featuring news and exclusive content in a bid to further cater to its Chinese fanbase.
"We are dedicated to offering Chinese fans more access to this historic club. What's more, the center will also help display Chinese elements to the outside world," said Harves Entertainment chairman Zhang Bo.
As one of the world's most recognizable and successful clubs, Manchester United have won England's Premier League for a record 20 times, and have three European Cup wins to their name.
However, the club has struggled since the retirement of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, and finished only sixth in the 2018/19 Premier League season after parting company with coach Jose Mourinho midway through the campaign.
