Fire Breaks Out at Etihad Stadium Before Man City’s Champions League Clash

Manchester City’s preparations for their crucial Champions League fixture against Club Brugge were disrupted when a fire broke out at the Etihad Stadium, leading to an evacuation outside the venue just hours before kick-off.

The fire, which originated from a merchandise kiosk near the Colin Bell West Stand, prompted stewards to swiftly move fans away before emergency services arrived and extinguished the flames. The club confirmed that safety remains the top priority, and as a result, all planned events at the West Stand reception, including the presentation of new signings, were canceled.

Despite the incident, the match is expected to go ahead as scheduled at 8 PM.

Man City Issues Statement on Etihad Stadium Fire

Following the incident, Manchester City released an official statement, reassuring fans:

"Manchester City FC can confirm that there has been a fire in one of the outside merchandise kiosks, located near the entrance to the Colin Bell West Stand. Emergency services are present at the scene and the fire has now been extinguished.

"The safety of all attending the match tonight is our top priority, and as such, all events planned for West Stand reception have been cancelled, including the welcome event for new players and the first-team arrival."

None of City's recent signings, including Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush, were eligible to play against Club Brugge due to Champions League registration rules, but they had been scheduled to participate in the now-canceled fan event.

City’s Must-Win Champions League Clash Still On

Manchester City enters this match under immense pressure, having suffered defeats to Juventus and PSG, the latter after blowing a 2-0 lead in the second half. A similar collapse against Feyenoord, where they let a three-goal lead slip, has put their Champions League campaign in jeopardy.

???? Pep Guardiola on the situation:
"We have to win the game—if not, we will not continue in this competition. We want to have another chance to play two more games and qualify for the next stage. It's not a problem; it's an opportunity."

A victory against Club Brugge is crucial for City's European survival, with a loss potentially knocking them out of the competition.