Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup will feature its biggest line-up to date, with 244 teams from 18 countries already confirmed to be taking part in a record-breaking edition.
The seventh edition of the Middle East’s biggest and best youth football tournament will kick off at Zayed Sports City from January 9-11. Next year’s event will see 44 girls’ teams playing – which is another record, as the tournament continues to help grow the girls’ game and offer the opportunity to play high-quality competitive football against international opposition.
For the first time ever, the tournament is also expanding to three days – and will kick off under the night skies of the capital ahead of three days of quality football featuring teams from under-8 to under-16 age groups.
The event brings world-class football standards and an unparalleled experience for players and fans alike, and will be hosted once again by Man City’s very own master of ceremonies FG, and will also be attended by ambassador, and Manchester City legend, Nedum Onuoha.
While the on-pitch action will provide many memorable moments, the focus of the event is always for players, teams, and spectators to have fun and enjoy the competition, and their time in Abu Dhabi. The fans City Village is expected to be attended by more than 8,000 people over the weekend and will feature games, partner activations and a disco jockey.
For one lucky winning team, there will also be the chance to secure the trip of a lifetime to one of the City Football Groups clubs, where they will take part in an incredible training experience like the professional players.
Head of Football Operations MENA for City Football Group, Simon Hewitt, said, “We can’t wait to welcome all the boys and girls, along with their teams, coaches, and families to Abu Dhabi. Year on year, we see this incredible tournament continue to grow, and next year’s edition is no exception.
Demand from this year made our decision to introduce a third day of competition, and the response from teams across the world has been incredible. This is a truly inclusive tournament and celebration of football and different cultures, all coming together for a weekend of fun in the UAE capital,” he said.
