SimplyAbuDhabi VII

8 6 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I Innovative new scheme Over in the United Arab Emirates, there was also something new for fans to get excited about, as City launched its first ever free international membership scheme for supporters – called Sky Blue. A series of “Fan Zone” events were announced at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City that would allow members to come together and enjoy games live on the big screen. One of the first saw almost 200 supporters gather for the huge Premier League clash with United at their famous Old Trafford stadium. It was an afternoon that would go down in history, as Roberto Mancini’s side demolished the opposition 6-1. As the goals flew in, Sky Blue members of multiple nationalities celebrated and danced around the Fan Zone. These events would take on a life of their own throughout the season as Sky Blue membership went from strength to strength. More than 5,000 have already registered. Vieira praises fans’ passion Patrick Vieira – football legend, former City star and now the Club’s Football Development Executive – was a special guest at the Fan Zone for the Liverpool game and was taken aback at the level of support in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. “InManchester we are all obviously aware of the links between the club and Abu Dhabi, but it is not until you come here to watch a game with fans that you appreciate the amount of passion they now have for City,” said the Frenchman, whose glittering career has seen him and team-mates winning the English Premier League, the FA Cup, the European Championships and the World Cup. “I was so impressed by how much they knew about the team and football in general, and what was fantastic to see was the mix of people with so many nationalities in the Fan Zone. City has always been supported massively in Manchester,” he continued, “ but now it is going to the next level with an international profile – and Sky Blue is a big part of that.” Travel to Manchester In addition to Fan Zones in Abu Dhabi and other competitions and events, Sky Blue members also had the chance to travel toManchester to watch the team in action at the Etihad Stadium. With discounts of up to forty percent on Etihad ticket and travel packages, supporters were able to make the trip throughout the season. His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan with Roberto Mancini