More than 8,000 people are set to descend on Zayed Sports City this weekend as the region’s biggest youth football tournament, the record-breaking Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup, returns for its seventh edition.
Three days of spectacular international football action will be accompanied by fun, friendship, and culture when close to 250 teams from 18 nations take part in the football showpiece.
The tournament will take place from Friday to Sunday, the first time it has been held over three days – a decision made due to unprecedented demand, and organisers are keen for the people of Abu Dhabi and wider UAE to join the fun – starting with the opening ceremony from 4pm on Friday.
Fans will be treated to an incredibly high standard of play, with teams from Europe, Africa, and Asia on display across under-8 to under-16 age groups. Boys and girls will be represented, with this year’s tournament featuring 44 girls’ teams, including two from the Manchester City Academy in the UK.
Along with the on-pitch action, there will be a lively Tournament City Village packed with action and things to do including the e& Gaming Zone, Puma pop up store, Aldar showcasing Fahid Island alongside a special ‘City player hunt’ across Zayed Sports City.
There will also be a Live Fanzone screening of Manchester City’s FA Cup Third Round tie against Exeter City, kicking off at 7pm UAE time on Saturday 10th January evening. DJ Jimmy D will be returning to keep the vibes and energy high throughout the day.
3v3 UAE will also be at the tournament, giving players the chance to play 3v3 and 1v1 games to refine their skills on innovative AirPitches.
As with last year, the event will be hosted by Man City’s FG and will also be attended by ambassador and Manchester City Legend Nedum Onuoha.
For one lucky winning team, there will also be the chance to secure the trip of a lifetime to any City Football Group club, where they will train and get to watch the first team in action.
Simon Hewitt, Head of Football Operations MENA, City Football Group and Tournament Director of Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup, said: “The Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup is for everyone, and we would love to see as many people as possible join us this weekend. The line-up of teams from across the world is incredible and we’re expecting a brilliant standard of play – but there is so much more to do and have fun with at the tournament, it really is a great family day out with lots to do and see.
“We are incredibly proud of the Manchester City Abu Dhabi Cup and have seen unbelievable growth since our first edition. To everyone attending this weekend, we offer our sincere thanks for helping make the tournament what it is – the biggest and best in the region. To all the boys and girls taking part, we say ‘good luck’, but most of all have fun, make new friends, and create memories that are going to last a lifetime.”
