This landmark occasion forms part of the phased opening of the expansion, with a series of public and private test events designed to assess key operational elements of the facility.

Subject to the new areas successfully passing initial internal checks, the event on Wednesday, 20th May, will operate at 50% of the additional seating capacity, allowing more than 3,500 fans to attend.

Should the test event be successful, the next phase will see City trial 100% capacity at the final Premier League home match of the season against Aston Villa. Hospitality areas, the fan zone and the wider Medlock Square development will open later in 2026.

Commenting on the first public event in the expanded North Stand, Danny Wilson, Managing Director – Manchester City Operations, said:  “After years of planning and construction, we’re getting close to using the expanded general admission seating section of the North Stand – a significant moment in the history of this Club that will see us break the Etihad Stadium’s record matchday attendance.

“Our aim has always been to open the new general admission seating before the end of the 2025/26 season. To do this, we must host a number of test events, with the evening of entertainment on Wednesday 20th playing a vital role. We hope more than 3,500 fans will join us, enjoy the evening with friends and family, and be the first to experience the expanded North Stand.”