Manchester City to reimburse fans after Champions League defeat
Manchester City’s squad has committed to reimbursing the 374 loyal supporters who made the arduous journey to Norway for their Champions League clash against Bodo/Glimt, with the total refund amounting to £9,357, reports BritPanorama.
Following what Erling Haaland described as an “embarrassing” display, the Norwegian underdogs secured a stunning 3-1 victory at Aspmyra Stadion. The defeat is considered one of the most significant upsets in Champions League history.
City’s travelling faithful endured freezing conditions in the Arctic Circle, with most having flown via Oslo before connecting to Bodo. Pep Guardiola’s side struggled throughout, compounded by Rodri’s dismissal after receiving two yellow cards within a minute during the second half.
The club’s leadership group, comprising Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Haaland, issued a joint statement expressing gratitude to those who made the trip. “Our supporters mean everything to us,” they stated, acknowledging the considerable hardship faced by fans watching the match in bitter cold.
The players reiterated their appreciation, describing the supporters as “the best fans in the world.” They noted, “Covering the cost of these tickets for the fans who travelled to Bodo is the least we can do.” Haaland accepted personal accountability for his performance, stating, “I take full responsibility for not being able to score. I apologise to every single City supporter that travelled.”
Haaland characterised the defeat as embarrassing, conceding that Bodo/Glimt thoroughly deserved the win. “We did our best, but something is missing. The senior players take responsibility,” he added, hinting at the relentless fixture schedule as the team prepares for their next match.
Kevin Parker, representing the official supporters’ club, welcomed the players’ gesture while highlighting the dedication of City’s travelling contingent. “City fans will travel to the ends of the earth to support our team,” Parker remarked. He emphasised that reaching Bodo was not easy and noted the adverse conditions faced by fans during the match.
Parker also underscored that the refund symbolizes the strong bond between the squad and supporters, describing it as “yet another reminder of that relationship.” The leadership group confirmed their determination to bounce back, with upcoming fixtures against Wolves at home and a midweek Champions League encounter with Galatasaray at the Etihad.
In such moments, the grit of devoted fans stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit in football — a reminder of how loyalty persists, even in defeat.
