As football-fever grips the UAE, and with the start of the 2010 English Premier League season only a few months away, Etihad Airways has unveiled a giant Manchester City FC shirt with the aim of getting more than 5,000 signatures on it before the club’s first home match of the season.

In a bid to reach the 5,000 signatures and goodwill messages, as well as demonstrate Abu Dhabi’s growing support of Manchester City FC, Etihad Airways will take the shirt on a tour of malls in Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain during the next few weeks.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Support for Manchester City FC continues to grow in Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways, as lead shirt sponsor and club partner, is committed and proud to develop its fan-base further. This innovative giant shirt promotion is another proof of our commitment and enthusiasm.”

The giant shirt already has 280 signatures on it following its first outing to the Emirates National School in Abu Dhabi in May.

Those youngsters who pledge their support for Manchester City FC and sign the shirt will be entered into a draw to be the club mascot at a home match next season. They will also have the chance to win a Manchester City FC shirt.

The giant shirt will be available for signing at the following:

·      Thursday June 17 and Friday June 18 at Al Jimi Mall in Al Ain (6 pm to 10 pm)
·      Thursday July 1 to Saturday July 3 at “Summer in Abu Dhabi” (ADNEC) (4 pm to 9 pm)

Etihad has been the official shirt sponsor and partner of Manchester City FC since May 2009.