Mann: Etihad showcase will highlight strength of women’s game | OneFootball

City Studios commentator Alistair Mann says every women’s match at the Etihad provides opportunity to attract new fans.

After two thrilling Barclays Women’s Super League games at the Etihad already this season, we return to the arena for a final time in 2024/25 on Sunday.

That one sees us welcome Chelsea for the league instalment of a seismic run of four back-to-back meetings with Sonia Bompastor’s side.

Buy tickets for City v Chelsea at the Etihad

The series of clashes got under way at Pride Park on Saturday when we were edged out in the Subway League Cup final.

We’ll now all head to the Joie Stadium on Wednesday for the first leg of a UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-final, where Mann will be providing live, free radio commentary on mancity.com and our official app.

After that, attention shifts to the Etihad Stadium for Sunday’s 14:30 (UK) start.

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While Mann won’t be in attendance at that one, we’ll have a bumper Matchday Live show that includes Toni Duggan, Jen Beattie and Karen Bardsley.

With tickets selling fast, Mann believes this match is another opportunity to show off just how much the women’s game has developed to the widest possible audience.

“I think any women’s game at the Etihad Stadium always has a little extra edge to it,” he said.

“Hopefully there will be a really good crowd, there always has been when City have moved over from the Joie Stadium to the Etihad.

“I can specifically think about the Manchester United games in recent seasons, when the atmosphere has been terrific.

“The atmosphere is always great at the Joie, but playing here adds an extra ingredient. I’m really pleased that’s happening and I think it does make a difference.

“A lot of people will see the women’s game at international level, but these games provide an extra opportunity for people to get their first taste of the women’s game live.

“They’ll see how impressive it is and come back for more.

“It’s fantastic to be part of a product that is the best it’s ever been and with every year that goes by, it keeps going on to another level.

“I’m sure the players are excited about it as well!”