Man City to explore expansion of Etihad Stadium

Manchester City have announced they will explore the possibility of expanding the Etihad Stadium and developing the surrounding area.

City regularly fill the stadium for Premier League games, underlining their position as one of the best-supported clubs in England.

They are hoping to take greater advantage of that by adding around 5,000 more seats as well as investing in improving the fan experience around the ground too.

“Manchester City has today announced it is undertaking feasibility studies to develop a best-in-class fan experience and a year-round entertainment and leisure destination at the Etihad Stadium,” a statement by the club read.

“The feasibility studies consider several connected elements, central to which is an expanded North Stand, which could increase capacity of the Etihad Stadium to over 60,000.

“Alongside this, the study is assessing the feasibility of an expanded and covered ‘City Square’ fan zone with food and drink outlets, a new club shop and museum, workspace and an onsite hotel.

“Identifying opportunities to introduce new entertainment experiences – both on matchday and non-matchday – is a key component of the study, building on the Club’s ongoing commitment to invest in and develop its facilities for the benefit of its fans and visitors.”

The stadium initially opened in 2003 with a capacity of 47,726 and was expanded to 55,017 in 2015. Man City fans have continued to fill it, so club officials are confident they could keep selling out after expanding again.

Currently, only Manchester United, Tottenham, West Ham and Arsenal in the Premier League have a greater capacity than Man City boast, although an expansion to 60,000 would not change any of that.