Fire Breaks Out at Etihad Stadium Before Champions League Match

MANCHESTER, England — A fire erupted at a merchandise stand outside Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening, just hours before Manchester City‘s crucial Champions League home game against Club Brugge. The blaze began around 18:00 GMT near the stadium’s main entrance as fans gathered for a presentation of the club’s January signings.

The event, which featured women’s players Rebecca Knaak and Aemu Oyama on stage, was abruptly halted as stewards and security staff evacuated the area. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire near the Colin Bell West Stand entrance. No injuries were reported.

Manchester City confirmed in a statement that the match would proceed as scheduled, with kick-off at 20:00 GMT. “Emergency services are present at the scene, and the fire has now been extinguished,” the club said. “The safety of all attending the match tonight is our top priority.”

The fire service reported that two fire engines from Blackley and Philips Park stations arrived quickly, using hose reels to douse the flames. Firefighters remained on-site to dampen hotspots and ensure the area was safe. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The incident forced the cancellation of the welcome event for new signings, including men’s players Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, and Abdukodir Khusanov. However, the players were later seen arriving at the stadium as planned.

Manchester City, currently 25th in the Champions League table, must secure a win against Club Brugge to advance to the knockout playoffs. The club assured fans that all stadium entrances were open and operations were running normally.