When the Premier League restarts Manchester City will be wearing bespoke match day kit to recognise global efforts to begin recovery from the impact of COVID-19.
City’s shirt sponsor – Etihad Airways – has teamed up with the club to unveil a new message on the front of their home shirt – replacing the usual Etihad logo.
As part of the ‘Cityzens Giving For Recovery’ campaign, City Football Group and Manchester City’s 12-month campaign aimed at helping communities get back on their feet, City players will be wearing the specially designed shirt against Arsenal when they visit the Etihad to play their Premier League fixture.
The ‘Cityzens Giving For Recovery’ campaign will focus on providing support directly to nine recovery-linked projects around the world, fundraising, the use of club facilities, and resources.
Each of the nine clubs within City Football Group, staff, players, coaches, and fans will be involved in various capacities.
Robin Kamark, Chief Commercial Officer, Etihad Aviation Group said: “Giving back to the community is a priority for Etihad, and a commitment we take seriously as an organisation.
“As we navigate our way through a new world, recovery is paramount to us getting back on our feet, and restarting again, stronger than before.
“To support the ’Cityzens Giving For Recovery’ campaign, we’ve committed our front of shirt branding space for Manchester City’s return game of the English Premier League, a significant gesture that we know will resonate with fans across the world.
“We value the decade-long partnership we’ve shared with Manchester City, and are excited to continue working together throughout the campaign to support communities in their recovery efforts.”
Omar Berrada, Chief Operating Officer, Manchester City added: “We are hugely grateful to our partners at Etihad for enabling us to use our most visible and significant asset to promote Cityzens Giving For Recovery.
“As ever, it demonstrates the enduring depth and value of our partnership.
“At a time when so many around the world have suffered enormous loss, we are proud to be introducing our new campaign to help our communities around the world get back on their feet.”
Black Lives Matter
As with other Premier League clubs City’s shirts will replace players’ names with “Black Lives Matter” when they run out to face Arsenal on Wednesday with the first 12 Premier League games of the restart covered until June 22.
A statement read: “We, the players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed.
“This symbol is a sign of unity from all players, all staff, all clubs, all match officials, and the Premier League.”