Man City players will pay traveling supporters following their unexpected loss in Bodo
Manchester City players will contribute from their own finances to reimburse travelling fans following a disappointing 3-1 Champions League loss to Norwegian team Bodo/Glimt in harsh Arctic conditions.
The Premier League club experienced an unexpected defeat on Tuesday as Bodo/Glimt achieved their inaugural Champions League win, highlighted by Kasper Hogh’s rapid brace and Jens Petter Hauge’s remarkable solo goal.
City secured a consolation goal from Rayan Cherki, but the second-half red card for 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri marked a disappointing night in the Norwegian town of Bodo.
Following the event, senior City players Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Erling Haaland released a statement recognizing the dedication of supporters who traveled a great distance to be there.
“Our supporters are incredibly important to us … it required a significant amount of travel for the fans who stood by us in the freezing cold during a challenging evening on the pitch,” they expressed on Wednesday. “Covering the cost of these tickets for the fans who journeyed to Bodo is the least we can do.”
The total reimbursement for the 374 fans will amount to 9,357 pounds ($12,568), with each fan having paid approximately 25 pounds per ticket.
“The support from the City fans creates a remarkable bond with the players during matchdays, and this gesture serves as another testament to that connection – it holds significant meaning for us,” stated Kevin Parker, representing City’s Official Supporters Club.
“The players are understandably disappointed with the defeat to Bodo. However, with our next game at home on Saturday, there is an opportunity to return to winning form, and our fans will be there in full support, as they always are.”
Pep Guardiola’s team, having suffered a 2-0 defeat in the Premier League against Manchester United on Saturday, will face Wolverhampton Wanderers this coming Saturday.
City currently holds the second position in the Premier League, accumulating 43 points from 22 matches, trailing leaders Arsenal by seven points.
