From popular football players to hotel owners, this has become of a team of former Manchester United (MUFC) football players, which opened Hotel Football, a new hotel complex directly opposite Manchester's Old Trafford stadium.

The hotel is owned by former MUFC players Gary and Phil Neville, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

Like Us on Facebook

The concept and design for Hotel Football were made by Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs while their three former team mates joined in as board members.

"We had a clear vision of what we wanted to achieve here and it is fantastic to see that vision brought to life," said Gary.

Hotel Football was officially opened on Monday to fans, business customers and tourists, who all gave their two-thumbs up for the unique hotel.

"This is a great hotel idea! Imagine going to the see the matches just a few steps away from where you are staying," said one happy fan.

The 12-storey hotel features 133 well-appointed bedrooms, a restaurant that can seat up to 180 people, a 330-seat function room and a mezzanine lounge.

And of course, there's a football pitch and event space on the roof!

Hundreds of fans trooped to the opening day as the hotel owners, who used to play under MUFC's Class of 92, mingled with supporters at their new enterprise.

The hotel also offers hospitality packages, including a US$60 "Players' Lounge Matchday Experience" deal and a USD153 package that comes with a bucket of beer on arrival, three-course meal, wine and beer, a match-day program, entertainment and an appearance by a celebrity.

The statement posted on Hotel Football's website said Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs came up with the idea of starting a hospitality company after travelling the world during their football careers.

"They have experienced more restaurants and hotels than most, giving them an innate understanding of what works and what doesn't," reads the statement.

TagsGary Neville, Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Hotel Football