Man City's Etihad Stadium evacuated as fire breaks before Champions League clash

A fire erupted at the Etihad Stadium mere hours before Manchester City's pivotal Champions League encounter with Club Brugge. Flames broke out at a merchandise stall situated just outside the Colin Bell Stand, reportedly caused by a gas canister catching fire.

Fire services were called to extinguish the blaze as the stadium underwent evacuation.

Manchester City FC issued a statement, asserting: "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."

Stewards had to usher fans away from the vicinity. The incident coincided with the presentation of City's three January acquisitions to the supporters, reports the Mirror. Abdukodir Khusanov, Omar Marmoush, and Vitor Reis, all recruited this month, were due to appear onstage outside the stadium. .

However, none of the new signings could partake in the match against Club Brugge owing to Champions League registration regulations—unfortunate given the match's significance. The pre-match event was halted as a fire broke out in the stand, prompting quick evacuation by stewards while the fire brigade was summoned.

As of now, it remains unclear if the blaze will impact the planned 8pm kick-off. The vicinity was swiftly cleared by stewards and security personnel, with a fire engine arriving on the scene promptly. The fire looked to be under control shortly after.

At 6.22pm, it was confirmed that the stadium had reopened for fans, although three gates near the fire remained closed. The rest of the pre-event entertainment was subsequently called off.

City face an all-important match on Wednesday against the Belgian team, where a win is essential for them to secure a playoff spot—anything less could see the 2023 champions exit the competition.