The Premier League (PL) defending champions, Manchester City are dramatically expanding their Etihad Campus, unveiling “Medlock,” a groundbreaking entertainment destination designed to draw visitors year-round. The club announced this ambitious project alongside a key partnership with Radisson Hotel Group, which will develop a state-of-the-art hotel within Medlock, further establishing the area as a premier destination within Manchester.
Named after the historic local area, Medlock promises to transform the Etihad Campus into a vibrant hub extending far beyond match days. The development plans reveal a diverse array of attractions and amenities aimed at enhancing the fan experience and attracting the wider community.
Manchester City confirmed that Medlock will enrich the fan experience with immersive pre- and post-match zones featuring interactive elements, live entertainment, and premium food and drink options. Beyond match days, Medlock will offer a curated dining and retail precinct, showcasing a selection of both local and international restaurants, bars, and shops catering to diverse tastes. To ensure a lively atmosphere throughout the year, dedicated entertainment and event spaces are planned, hosting live music, screenings, community events, and engaging football experiences.
Furthermore, the development will prioritize a welcoming and accessible environment by creating a landscaped public realm with improved walkways, green spaces, and public gathering areas.
Central to Medlock’s vision is the partnership with Radisson Hotel Group. The hotel chain will build a flagship hotel within the development, providing seamless access to Medlock’s attractions and the Etihad Stadium. This collaboration marks a significant step in creating a comprehensive destination, offering accommodation for travelling fans, event attendees, and tourists.
Roel de Vries, Chief Operating Officer at City Football Group, said, “Today’s announcement is an exciting moment as we reveal the name of our hotel as ‘The Medlock’ and welcome globally renowned hotelier, Radisson Hotel Group to the Etihad Campus.
“Radisson’s enthusiasm and passion for the Club’s hotel project is clear, and we firmly believe that Radisson’s industry experience together with the Club’s ambition and vision for the hotel is the perfect combination.
“We look forward to working with Radisson as we move towards the opening of the hotel and a year-round sports and entertainment destination that our fans and visitors from both the UK and around the world can enjoy.”
Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, added, “Our brands are always relevant to both our owners and our guests. We are thrilled to collaborate with Manchester City Football Club and create a global flagship hotel within the world-class Etihad Campus in Manchester.
“This hotel is a fantastic addition to a growing portfolio of several stadium-based properties in the UK, like the renowned cricket ground, Edgbaston Stadium, the Allianz Stadium Twickenham, Home of England rugby, and worldwide in India and China.
“We are grateful for Manchester City’s trust in our brands and confident that our long-standing cooperation will unlock further opportunities for all stakeholders.”
The development of Medlock underscores Manchester City’s commitment to innovation and creating world-class experiences. By transforming the Etihad Campus into a vibrant entertainment destination, the club aims to solidify its position as a leading football club and a major contributor to Manchester’s cultural and economic landscape.