Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup will return for its eighth edition in January next year at Zayed Sports City, with organisers confirming an increase in the number of teams and a stronger emphasis on girls’ participation.
Young players from schools across the UAE and overseas are expected to take part in the event from January 8 to 10 and which will feature eight age-group categories.
Boys will compete in the Under-8, U10, U12, U14 and U16 groups. Girls’ teams will be fielded in the U12, U14 and U16 age groups, with the number of female sides set to rise compared with previous years.
The tournament has grown steadily since its inception, and the 2026 edition attracted a record number of entrants. In the new season, the organisers hope to build on that foundation with an expanded programme both on and off the pitch.
Improvements are planned to the playing experience for teams and coaches. There will also be greater recognition of individual performances. In addition to the usual team trophies, two new individual awards will be presented: Goal of the Tournament and the Etihad Player of the Tournament.
All winning teams will be entered into a prize draw. The winners of that draw will receive a trip to a City Football Group club, where they will train at a professional facility and watch a first-team match. Places remain available for teams based in the region and further afield, though numbers are limited.
The Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup is described by its organisers as the club’s largest international football event. Zayed Sports City has hosted the tournament for several years, providing consistent facilities and a central location in the capital.
The addition of more girls’ teams reflects a wider trend in the Emirates, where female participation in organised sport continues to increase. Registration for the 2027 edition remains open for a limited period. Further details on schedules, rules and the exact format of the individual awards will be released closer to the event.
