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Dubai: Manchester City fans are ecstatic after historic treble. They ticked every box and highlighted their credentials as European giants. However, the big turning point came in a crucial encounter with Arsenal, a battle for the top two in the Premier League. City won 4-1 at their fortress at the Etihad and from then on Pep Guardiola’s men crushed their opponents with ease and never looked back.
When the four young footballers from the UAE traveled to the Etihad Arena to become the mascots for Manchester City’s matches against the Gunners, their dreams came true.
Mohammad, Kais, Mohammad and Itqan from the Talented Players Program (TPP) of the Emirates City Football School (CFS) enjoyed the matchday experience of a lifetime thanks to e& and Manchester City FC. As well as watching the game against Manchester City, the quartet took part in training sessions at the academy and visited the Etihad Stadium before stepping out with the players to enjoy top-flight clashes.
Mohammed (right) during a training session at the Abu Dhabi City Football Academy.
Credit: Virendra Saklani/Gulf News
Mohammad, a fifth grade student in Abu Dhabai, was thrilled after going out with his idol Rodri. “I enjoyed the game and it was a great experience to see my team win. It was my first time watching a senior team play,” said the 10-year-old. “I’ve studied football more than half my life,” said the Jordanian, a passionate football student and top student.
world class football player
For 12-year-old Emirati Mohamed, he used the opportunity to set his sights on playing in the English league.
“I want to play in the English league and represent the UAE. My aim is to be a world-class footballer,” said the 12-year-old mascot for goalkeeper Ederson. “I’m almost as tall as Ederson, and when I told him about it, he allowed me to stand beside him, not in front of him, because I would cover him,” the Emiratis said with a laugh.
Emirati Mohammad (left) plays against a fellow City Soccer Academy student during a training session in Dubai.
Credit: Clint Egbert/Gulf News
Shock and awe at Itcan
For 13-year-old Itqan, the whole experience at the Etihad has been a shock and awe, and he enjoyed every bit of his presence during the games.
“I walked out with my idol, Ruben Diaz. It was great to see the first team in action and the atmosphere at the Etihad was really good,” added the Malaysian eighth grader, eager to Become an international soccer player playing in the highest league.
Itqan showed off his dribbling skills in a training session.
Credit: Virendra Saklani/Gulf News
unbelievable trip
Case, 12, initially couldn’t believe he was one of four people chosen for the dream trip and thought it was fake.
“I was delighted to see the game and walked out with City captain Ilkay Gundogan. I want to be the greatest footballer ever,” said the French citizen, who started in Manchester , then went on to play in London and Montreal before moving to Dubai a year ago.
Kais’ goal is to become the greatest football player of all time and he is working hard to achieve his goal.
Credit: Clint Egbert/Gulf News
e& has been the official telecommunications partner of Manchester City Football Club since 2009 and last year partnered with Manchester City Football School (CFS) to support the Talented Players Program (TPP). The program aims to provide a platform for young football players aged 11-16 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
successful plan
Launched in 2019, the program aims to help footballers reach their potential and provides guidance from expert coaches from the City Soccer Academy. The TPP is part of the CFS programme, with guidance in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Over three years, the program has successfully transformed over 50 players into an elite football environment.
For the four young talents, in addition to their love for the game, a common goal is to achieve great things. For this, they have prepared themselves and given themselves the opportunity to make it happen.
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