Roger Hampel
A New Era for Manchester City Women's Team
Manchester City Women are on the brink of a significant milestone with the submission of plans for a new, purpose-built training facility at the City Football Academy. This development, estimated at a value of up to £10 million, is a testament to the club's dedication to providing the women’s team with top-tier resources. The proposed facility, pending approval, is set to open in 2025 and represents the latest investment by the club in world-class infrastructure for its teams.
Advanced Features of the Proposed Facility
The new training facility, designed exclusively for the women’s first team, promises a host of state-of-the-art features. It includes a hydrotherapy area, a high-performance gym, and an analytics space, mirroring the elite environment of the men’s first team. This 17,000 square foot building is not only designed for immediate needs but also allows for future expansion, reflecting the club's confidence in the team's continued growth.
Integrating Expertise and Resources
During the planning phase, experts from various disciplines within the first team contributed insights to ensure the facility meets the specific requirements of the players. This close collaboration underscores the club’s commitment to holistic player development. Furthermore, the facility's location within the £200m City Football Academy ecosystem means the women's team will have continued access to the organization's extensive resources and expertise.
Proximity to Joie Stadium
The proposed training facility is located mere hundreds of meters from the Manchester City Women’s 7,000-seater Joie Stadium - the first and largest purpose-built stadium in the Barclays Women’s Super League. This proximity to the existing infrastructure, including the men's first team and Academy training facilities, enhances the cohesive and integrated environment for all Manchester City teams.
Comments from Club Leadership and Players
Charlotte O’Neill, Managing Director of Manchester City Women, expressed excitement about the plans: “This purpose-built facility is a significant step in our journey. It reflects our commitment to the team’s evolving needs and our ambition to be at the forefront of women’s football development.”
Manchester City captain, Steph Houghton, added her perspective: “The City Football Academy has been our home, and it’s played a crucial role in our development. This new facility marks a new chapter in our journey, underlining the club's commitment to investing in our future.”
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