Dame Sue Campbell, The FA’s Director of Women’s Football and UEFA Women’s EURO 2021 Board Member said: “The confirmation of Old Trafford as the iconic venue for England’s opening game shows just how big our aspirations for UEFA Women’s EURO 2021 are. As a proud host nation, by staging matches at ten fantastic grounds across the country, our aim is not only to deliver a record-breaking tournament, but also to ensure that it provides a tangible legacy in terms of growing the women’s game. By inspiring fans both at home and abroad, and by providing playing opportunities to girls in every school across the country, I am confident that we can do exactly that.”
Phil Neville, England Women’s Head Coach said: "It doesn’t get much bigger than managing your country at a home EURO, and it is set to be a special summer as we prepare to host this wonderful competition. Old Trafford has a special place in my heart, and is also one of the country’s most iconic football grounds, so I’m looking forward to kicking off our WEURO2021 campaign in Manchester. I can’t wait to then take our Lionesses to Southampton and Brighton, as the tournament offers fans across the country the chance to watch the elite women’s game on home turf next summer.”
Nadine Kessler, UEFA’s Head of Women’s Football said: “This UEFA Women’s EURO 2021 will be ground-breaking from start to finish. To kick-off at the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ in Manchester, and to have the final at the iconic Wembley Stadium shows just how far the game has come. This is what women’s football deserves. To play in such stadia is what you strive for - as a player, coach, referee and a fan. I am so happy for everyone who will have the opportunity to experience this. Our goal is to deliver a memorable tournament and inspire the next generation of football-loving girls and boys. Knowing The FA and England’s long-term commitment to the women’s game, we have no doubt that we will achieve this together and set a new European benchmark.”