Former Manchester United team-mates Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs set to become first Premier League stars to own a synagogue
The two have built a number of hotels and restaurant but this latest venture sees them plan to redevelop the Manchester Reform Synagogue
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville and current star Ryan Giggs are set to become the first Premier League footballers to open a synagogue as they look to continue their property development venture.
The United greats have gone into business together opening hotels and restaurants around the world, with their latest construction being a football-themed hotel near Old Trafford.
And now the Jewish Chronicle Online is reporting that the pair have set their eyes on the Manchester Reform Synagogue – a 1950’s-built building which remains the only city-centre shul in Manchester.
The move comes amid reports they are attempting to buy a disused police station just off Manchester’s main shopping street Deansgate, with the adjacent synagogue a required purchase if they are to redevelop the site.
As part of the plans, they will build new offices, apartments and shops on the site, and will also incorporate a new shul and a community centre complex according to the Jewish Chronicle Online.
Neville has made the transformation from Premier League footballer to TV pundit seamlessly, drawing wide-praise for his analyst work when covering matches for Sky. But it appears his move into development is going just as well, having recently opened a restaurant in east London as well as many other ventures into property with his former team-mate.
Giggs may be keeping his attentions elsewhere though, with United set to host Premier League leaders Arsenal on Sunday in a make-or-break match for the current title holders. Lose, and they’ll find themselves 11 points off the top of the table, although victory would launch them back into contention after a slow start under new manager David Moyes.
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