The City Football Academy (CFA) has been a cornerstone of Manchester City’s success, both on and off the pitch, over the past decade. To celebrate its 10th anniversary, here’s a look at some of the most iconic moments that have defined this world-class facility.
1. Welcome, Pep Guardiola!
When Pep Guardiola arrived in Manchester, it felt like a seismic shift in world football. His unveiling during the Cityzens Weekend in 2016 wasn’t just about a new manager but a new era. Alongside the launch of the new badge and kit, thousands of fans gathered at CFA to welcome the man who would deliver 18 trophies (and counting).
2. Istanbul, We Are Coming
Before Manchester City lifted their first Champions League trophy in 2023, the foundation of that treble-winning season was laid at CFA. Players and staff shared an emotional send-off at the academy before heading to Turkey for the final. The iconic flag-waving moment will forever be etched in the club’s history.
3. Legends Honoured
From Yaya Toure to Vincent Kompany, City legends have been immortalized with stunning mosaics at CFA. This tribute not only celebrates their contributions but also inspires the next generation of players. The latest addition? A mosaic for Steph Houghton, recognizing her incredible career with the club.
4. Forever Blue: Alex Williams Community Pitch
Former City goalkeeper Alex Williams MBE was honored for his decades-long service to the community. The renaming of the community pitch to ‘The Alex Williams Community Pitch’ highlights the positive impact he had on Greater Manchester through City in the Community.
5. Studio One – Where Stories Are Told
The launch of Studio One elevated City’s content game. This cutting-edge facility within CFA has become the nerve center for documentaries, interviews, and Matchday Live. Productions like the ‘Together’ series offer fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to their heroes.
6. Joie Stadium Partnership
City made history in 2023 when Joie became the Official Stadium Naming Partner of the Academy Stadium, marking a significant milestone for women’s football. The rebranded Joie Stadium also hosted a record crowd for a women’s Champions League clash against Barcelona.
7. Special Guests
From Oasis to world leaders, CFA has welcomed its fair share of VIPs. A standout moment was when China’s President Xi Jinping visited, accompanied by then-British Prime Minister David Cameron. The selfie with Sergio Aguero became an internet sensation.
8. Women’s EURO 2022 Matches
As one of 10 venues for the 2022 Women’s European Championships, CFA played host to memorable group-stage clashes. The tournament not only brought global attention to Manchester but also contributed to England’s historic triumph in women’s football.
9. £10m Women’s Training Facility
City’s commitment to women’s football was solidified with plans for a standalone, £10 million training facility. Designed with the input of multidisciplinary experts, this state-of-the-art development ensures the women’s team has the best environment to grow and thrive.
10. Blue and Green – Sustainability Goals
The installation of thousands of solar panels across CFA, including 2,878 on the Joie Stadium alone, is a testament to City’s dedication to sustainability. Once complete, the site will be one of the largest producers of self-supplied renewable energy in world football, leading the way for green initiatives in sports.
From welcoming Pep Guardiola to championing sustainability, the CFA has been at the heart of Manchester City’s evolution. Here’s to the next decade of excellence and innovation.
