Manchester City welcome European-chasing Brentford to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening as they desperately try to catch league leaders Arsenal who are storming ahead under Mikel Arteta.
Pep Guardiola’s side have already beaten the Bees twice this season, winning 1-0 in the top flight six months ago before securing a 2-0 EFL Cup victory in December.
Now, according to the Manchester Evening News’ Simon Bajkowski, the Etihad Stadium will be renamed “The City in the Community Etihad Stadium” for the clash as part of the acknowledgement of the club's official charity.
Reports state that the name change will be reflected by players walking out in jackets with the charity’s branding, City defender Ruben Dias voicing travel announcements for buses and trams, and player graphics on social media drawn by local schoolchildren.
Mike Geary, CEO of CITC spoke on the change and hopes that such publicity will help people in need at the end of the season.
“Community Matchday is a moment in the season where everyone connected to Manchester City comes together to celebrate the impact of City in the Community. From supporters in the stands to staff, partners and participants, it’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a football club and its community unite behind a shared purpose.
“We are incredibly grateful to the men’s squad for their continued generosity and commitment to our charity. To receive this donation for the second year running means a great deal to everyone at City in the Community, and more importantly, to the young people it will support.”
City, who are 5 points behind Arsenal, will welcome a return to the Etihad where they are unbeaten in each of their last 15 Premier League games. A win would cut that lead to just 3 points before the Gunners face West Ham this Sunday.