themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-04--ADVERTORIAL: What building Britain's biggest arena in east Manchester means for local people

Last month the M.E.N revealed exciting plans for Manchester to site the biggest indoor arena in Britain .
Subject to planning approval , the venue near the Etihad Stadium will have capacity for 23,500 people and could host 120 music and sports events a year .
As we know , change brings opportunity but also many questions - and our readers have rightly asked a lot of them .
Here we examine nine topics , raised by our readers , with the American boss behind sports and entertainment company Oak View Group ( OVG ) .
Tim Leiweke , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covers everything from transport links to security and community spirit ahead of a planning decision on the £350m private venture .
This is what he had to say ... .
American sports executive Tim starts by discussing the coronavirus crisis and the difficult situation faced by many sectors .
He said : `` All of us at OVG are hugely concerned about the situation which has unfolded across the world .
`` It touches everyone ’ s lives , and we stand in solidarity with our colleagues in the live entertainment business , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We are 100 % committed to Manchester for the long haul and look forward to becoming an important part of the city ’ s phenomenal entertainment community and to playing our part in putting Manchester at the top of the world for live entertainment . ''
Is this the right time to be moving forward with plans for a new arena ?
`` This is obviously an incredibly difficult time for everyone in Manchester and across the world .
We know it ’ s particularly difficult for our friends and colleagues in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also know that once this is over there will be a need to get the economy back on its feet and , should we get planning permission , we want to invest around £350m in Manchester and create thousands of construction jobs as quickly as possible .
`` Our design and overall programme remain on track and we could be on site by September this year .
I believe the quicker we can do that the better for the city , and for the people who will fill those jobs .
`` In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant benefits for the Manchester economy , with over 85 % of additional benefits captured by other city centre businesses . ''
Community is at the heart of the new arena and that 's the way it should be .
To ensure that the arena serves local needs OVG has consulted with the local community and businesses to help shape the designs .
They also want the new build to fit in with the regeneration priorities of east Manchester and the broader city .
How have you consulted with local communities and businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven months ?
Tim said : `` We ’ ve been meticulous in our approach to the consultation process and undertaken over 50 meetings to listen and learn from the local community , stakeholders and businesses , as well as two public consultation phases which included nine consultation events in east Manchester .
`` Our proposals are better because of that engagement and I ’ d like to thank everyone who spent time with us .
And I know they ’ re going to hold our feet to the flame to ensure that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole city . ''
What is the key feedback you have received and how will you address it ?
`` We have heard loud and clear that we need to address local residents ’ concerns about transport , and particularly parking , and our proposals seek to do that in a number of ways .
`` Residents parking zones are a major priority for us .
We have committed to working through the precise detail with residents in order to extend the area and fund a new scheme .
`` We know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ locally , which is why we will be working , along with our contractors , to prioritise the hiring and training of local people .
`` We also want the venue to give back to the local and wider community .
We ’ re already in detailed discussions with our partners about creating a unique charitable and community programme which will be used to support good causes both locally and nationally . ''
With other cities constantly developing and improving their entertainment offering it is important that Manchester does n't get left behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most conservative scenario of 1.1 % growth in the live entertainment market , a new arena could lead to a 58 % increase in visitor spends compared to now - on hotels , restaurants , shopping etc .
Other regions are also looking to push ahead with new arenas which means Manchester needs to stay competitive .
For example , there are potentially two additional arenas planned for London to make four in total , and significant expansion plans in Birmingham .
OVG ’ s proposals will ensure Manchester does not lose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regional centres in the UK and will help it regain its rightful place as a nationally and globally competitive entertainment destination .
How will the proposed arena benefit Greater Manchester 's wider economy ?
`` Manchester is one of the greatest places in the world for music and sport , but it ’ s currently missing out on some of the world ’ s best events .
`` Our vision is to build an arena that means Manchester is back competing on a level with the O2 in London , Madison Square Garden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in LA .
`` Our research shows that market growth and the impact of the new arena could significantly expand the Manchester market attracting additional shows , in music , sport and new formats such as esports .
`` There is a particular opportunity for Manchester to attract huge award shows like the BRITs or major international sports events , including those that need warm up and practice spaces that the wider Etihad Campus can offer .
`` Alongside the benefits to Eastlands , the economic benefit would be experienced in the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , restaurants and bars are based and where many people would hang out both before and after a show . ''
How will this contribute towards 'the re-balancing of the national economy ' and north/south divide ?
`` Manchester is the economic engine for the entire north of England , but the city has missed out on world-leading events over recent years because of a lack of a world-class arena .
`` I ’ ve got a belief that our proposals , with all the associated economic benefits they will bring , will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five markets for live entertainment in the world , with all of the associated economic benefits that would bring .
`` And be under no illusion , other cities have stepped up to take business and events from Manchester already , with a number of new openings or large-scale redevelopments of arenas in Birmingham , London , and Newcastle . ''
OVG is already in discussions with Manchester City Council about an employment and skills strategy .
This will include apprenticeships , specific skills training in partnership with local education partners , local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to get back into work .
OVG predicts that the new arena will create 3,350 jobs during construction and more than 1,000 roles when it opens - at Manchester Living Wage or higher .
The strategy is in place to make sure that training and employment opportunities are available for Mancunians .
How will you ensure that jobs go to local people ?
Tim said : `` Our new arena will create 3,350 jobs during construction and over 1,000 once open , and we ’ re committed to prioritising hiring local people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions with Manchester City Council as well as local education and work bodies to develop an employment and skills strategy that works for local people .
`` We will give priority to the local labour force and will agree targets and programmes with Manchester City Council for these local targets . ''
There are several examples in the UK of a city supporting two arenas in close proximity - just look at Birmingham for example .
In fact , no arena has ever closed when a new one has been brought forward in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and there are various examples of arenas adapting their market positioning and continuing to thrive .
With growing demand in the UK for live entertainment , including music , family shows , and sport , analysis shows that Manchester ’ s economic and cultural strength can support two successful arenas .
The thorough analysis was undertaken by Ekosgen and PWC as part of the planning process .
Is Manchester big enough to sustain two arenas - what is the evidence for this ?
`` I ’ m extremely bullish on the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence shows that , even taking a conservative view , the city ’ s economic strength and position as a world-leading centre of culture mean it can support two successful arenas .
`` Just look at Birmingham , it ’ s not as big a market as Manchester but it ’ s supporting two arenas .
In fact , they ’ ve just announced a big expansion of one of their two arenas , no doubt with one eye on acts that would go to Manchester .
`` Economic analysis carried out as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even with the most conservative growth forecasts the city can sustain two successful arenas , with over £1bn of GVA created which , in non-financial speak , means £1bn of additional contribution to the economy .
This equates to a 58 % increase in GVA from visitor expenditure , or 80 % in the most ambitious scenario .
`` Based on the growth scenarios , Manchester is expected to see additional annual ticket sales of 1.3m by 2035 , which would result in significant benefits to the Manchester economy .
`` However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the extra capacity that our new arena would bring to the city .
`` We welcome the top-line development plans released by the existing arena recently , which demonstrate ambitious investment plans for their venue .
`` We don ’ t have much detail yet but the updates to the existing arena are consistent with how markets respond and can thrive with two arenas .
`` As an operator , my opinion is that the existing arena will continue to be an attractive prospect , if not for the current operators then for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you differentiate and complement each other ?
`` We don ’ t see the existing arena as competition to our proposals .
`` We believe both arenas will be able to find a successful niche and complement each other , helping to grow the overall live entertainment market in Manchester .
`` Their operations have little impact on our vision , though , or return on our £350m private investment .
We ’ re the ones who are second into the Manchester market , using private funds , and that means we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The new arena has raised a lot of questions around transport and local infrastructure .
However , the Etihad Campus was chosen due to its 'suitability , availability , and viability ' for the proposed arena .
OVG believe it is an accessible site that is well connected to the centre by public transport with connections to the city centre and beyond .
Transport studies show that 40 % of visitors , around 20,000 people , to the Etihad Stadium on match days currently arrive by non-car modes .
However , there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zone ( CPZ ) to address concerns of local residents .
Additionally , promoting and incentivising sustainable transport modes along with improved walking routes , cycling infrastructure and signage will promote active travel options .
How will local infrastructure cope with the influx of more people ?
Tim said : `` We chose the Etihad Campus site for our new arena partly because of its excellent access to the city centre .
`` The Etihad Stadium regularly attracts crowds of over 55,000 and given our arena will usually have a capacity around 20,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infrastructure can more than cope with the numbers that will be attending the arena .
`` However , we want to go even further and that ’ s why we ’ re including enhancements to sustainable modes of transport in our proposals , including cycling and walking .
`` As part of our proposals , we want to enhance the excellent existing transport connections .
We want to work with TfGM to increase capacity on trams and bus services , and will also provide shuttle bus services for events at the arena .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sustainable transport choices the quickest and easiest way to access the venue and we will actively discourage the use of cars . ''
Will the arena stagger events so it does n't coincide with gigs or matches at The Etihad to reduce congestion ?
`` Our plan is to work closely with Manchester City Football Club to coordinate events so that clashes happen as infrequently as possible .
`` On the rare occasions when events do coincide , perhaps when a match has been rearranged at short notice , we will work closely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council and the police to ensure we are all aligned . ''
Safety for visitors to the new arena is paramount and OVG will have a robust security strategy .
This will be developed alongside Greater Manchester Police , counter terrorism advisers , Prevent Advisors , and the existing Etihad Campus operations team .
The requirements of ‘ Martyn ’ s Law ’ will be incorporated into the licensing conditions of the venue .
What are your plans to keep the arena safe ?
`` The safety and security of people attending any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priority .
`` Prevent Advisors , OVG ’ s own world-leading pioneering security advisory service , is led by Special Operations , Law Enforcement and Venue Management professionals who are experts in public venue security .
`` They will work alongside Greater Manchester Police , Counter-terrorism advisers , and existing Etihad Campus operations team on a robust security strategy .
`` Through Prevent Advisors , we also have plans to launch an innovative new sanitation advisory arm to ensure all our arenas have first class hygiene and sanitation protocols . ''
How will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with mental health issues , deafness or those who are partially sighted ?
`` We want to lead the industry in ending exclusivity at live events , and that ’ s why our proposals in Manchester put inclusivity at the heart of the design .
`` Our venue will be fully accessible , offer wheelchair access across all levels as well as providing sensory rooms and changing places facilities .
`` The venue is aiming to be certified for the Attitude is Everything Gold Standard on opening , the highest certification for inclusivity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How will the design of the arena be environmentally-friendly and sustainable ?
`` I think climate change is the fight of our generation , and the arena will aim to be the most sustainable arena in the UK .
`` Our proposals significantly exceed all of Manchester ’ s planning policy requirements on sustainability and supports Manchester City Council ’ s Net Zero 2038 commitment .
`` Our plans incorporate renewable energy sources and low energy or energy efficient technology throughout .
The new arena will also utilise rainwater harvesting and storage to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will lead the industry in waste management with targets for elimination of single-use plastics , a surplus food donation programme and we will ensure that no waste is taken to landfill from the venue . ''
To find out more and have your say on the application please visit Manchester City Council 's planning portal .

Last month the M.E.N revealed exciting plans for Manchester to site the biggest indoor arena in Britain.
Subject to planning approval, the venue near the Etihad Stadium will have capacity for 23,500 people and could host 120 music and sports events a year.
As we know, change brings opportunity but also many questions - and our readers have rightly asked a lot of them.
Here we examine nine topics, raised by our readers, with the American boss behind sports and entertainment company Oak View Group (OVG).
Tim Leiweke, who is no stranger to the city, covers everything from transport links to security and community spirit ahead of a planning decision on the £350m private venture.
This is what he had to say....
Coronavirus
American sports executive Tim starts by discussing the coronavirus crisis and the difficult situation faced by many sectors.
He said: "All of us at OVG are hugely concerned about the situation which has unfolded across the world.
"It touches everyone’s lives, and we stand in solidarity with our colleagues in the live entertainment business, and in the wider Manchester community.
"We are 100% committed to Manchester for the long haul and look forward to becoming an important part of the city’s phenomenal entertainment community and to playing our part in putting Manchester at the top of the world for live entertainment."
Is this the right time to be moving forward with plans for a new arena?
"This is obviously an incredibly difficult time for everyone in Manchester and across the world. We know it’s particularly difficult for our friends and colleagues in the live entertainment industry.
"We also know that once this is over there will be a need to get the economy back on its feet and, should we get planning permission, we want to invest around £350m in Manchester and create thousands of construction jobs as quickly as possible.
"Our design and overall programme remain on track and we could be on site by September this year. I believe the quicker we can do that the better for the city, and for the people who will fill those jobs.
"In the long-term, the arena will generate significant benefits for the Manchester economy, with over 85% of additional benefits captured by other city centre businesses."
(Image: OVG)
Community
Community is at the heart of the new arena and that's the way it should be.
To ensure that the arena serves local needs OVG has consulted with the local community and businesses to help shape the designs.
They also want the new build to fit in with the regeneration priorities of east Manchester and the broader city.
How have you consulted with local communities and businesses on the arena plans in the last seven months?
Tim said: "We’ve been meticulous in our approach to the consultation process and undertaken over 50 meetings to listen and learn from the local community, stakeholders and businesses, as well as two public consultation phases which included nine consultation events in east Manchester.
"Our proposals are better because of that engagement and I’d like to thank everyone who spent time with us. And I know they’re going to hold our feet to the flame to ensure that we make this arena a success for the whole city."
What is the key feedback you have received and how will you address it?
"We have heard loud and clear that we need to address local residents’ concerns about transport, and particularly parking, and our proposals seek to do that in a number of ways.
"Residents parking zones are a major priority for us. We have committed to working through the precise detail with residents in order to extend the area and fund a new scheme.
"We know that people want to feel economic benefits locally, which is why we will be working, along with our contractors, to prioritise the hiring and training of local people.
"We also want the venue to give back to the local and wider community. We’re already in detailed discussions with our partners about creating a unique charitable and community programme which will be used to support good causes both locally and nationally."
(Image: OVG)
Economic impact
With other cities constantly developing and improving their entertainment offering it is important that Manchester doesn't get left behind.
Economic analysis shows that even in the most conservative scenario of 1.1% growth in the live entertainment market, a new arena could lead to a 58% increase in visitor spends compared to now - on hotels, restaurants, shopping etc.
Other regions are also looking to push ahead with new arenas which means Manchester needs to stay competitive.
For example, there are potentially two additional arenas planned for London to make four in total, and significant expansion plans in Birmingham.
OVG’s proposals will ensure Manchester does not lose further market share and events to other regional centres in the UK and will help it regain its rightful place as a nationally and globally competitive entertainment destination.
How will the proposed arena benefit Greater Manchester's wider economy?
"Manchester is one of the greatest places in the world for music and sport, but it’s currently missing out on some of the world’s best events.
"Our vision is to build an arena that means Manchester is back competing on a level with the O2 in London, Madison Square Garden in New York, and The Forum in LA.
"Our research shows that market growth and the impact of the new arena could significantly expand the Manchester market attracting additional shows, in music, sport and new formats such as esports.
"There is a particular opportunity for Manchester to attract huge award shows like the BRITs or major international sports events, including those that need warm up and practice spaces that the wider Etihad Campus can offer.
"Alongside the benefits to Eastlands, the economic benefit would be experienced in the city centre, where the majority of hotels, restaurants and bars are based and where many people would hang out both before and after a show."
How will this contribute towards 'the re-balancing of the national economy' and north/south divide?
"Manchester is the economic engine for the entire north of England, but the city has missed out on world-leading events over recent years because of a lack of a world-class arena.
"I’ve got a belief that our proposals, with all the associated economic benefits they will bring, will re-establish Manchester as one of the top five markets for live entertainment in the world, with all of the associated economic benefits that would bring.
"And be under no illusion, other cities have stepped up to take business and events from Manchester already, with a number of new openings or large-scale redevelopments of arenas in Birmingham, London, and Newcastle."
(Image: OVG)
Jobs and skills
OVG is already in discussions with Manchester City Council about an employment and skills strategy.
This will include apprenticeships, specific skills training in partnership with local education partners, local job fairs, and measures to encourage people to get back into work.
OVG predicts that the new arena will create 3,350 jobs during construction and more than 1,000 roles when it opens - at Manchester Living Wage or higher.
The strategy is in place to make sure that training and employment opportunities are available for Mancunians.
How will you ensure that jobs go to local people?
Tim said: "Our new arena will create 3,350 jobs during construction and over 1,000 once open, and we’re committed to prioritising hiring local people.
"We’re already in discussions with Manchester City Council as well as local education and work bodies to develop an employment and skills strategy that works for local people.
"We will give priority to the local labour force and will agree targets and programmes with Manchester City Council for these local targets."
(Image: OVG)
Competition
There are several examples in the UK of a city supporting two arenas in close proximity - just look at Birmingham for example.
In fact, no arena has ever closed when a new one has been brought forward in a single city or overlapping catchment area, and there are various examples of arenas adapting their market positioning and continuing to thrive.
With growing demand in the UK for live entertainment, including music, family shows, and sport, analysis shows that Manchester’s economic and cultural strength can support two successful arenas.
The thorough analysis was undertaken by Ekosgen and PWC as part of the planning process.
Is Manchester big enough to sustain two arenas - what is the evidence for this?
"I’m extremely bullish on the UK and Manchester market, and all the evidence shows that, even taking a conservative view, the city’s economic strength and position as a world-leading centre of culture mean it can support two successful arenas.
"Just look at Birmingham, it’s not as big a market as Manchester but it’s supporting two arenas. In fact, they’ve just announced a big expansion of one of their two arenas, no doubt with one eye on acts that would go to Manchester.
"Economic analysis carried out as part of our planning submission indicated that even with the most conservative growth forecasts the city can sustain two successful arenas, with over £1bn of GVA created which, in non-financial speak, means £1bn of additional contribution to the economy. This equates to a 58% increase in GVA from visitor expenditure, or 80% in the most ambitious scenario.
"Based on the growth scenarios, Manchester is expected to see additional annual ticket sales of 1.3m by 2035, which would result in significant benefits to the Manchester economy.
"However, this growth could not be achieved without the extra capacity that our new arena would bring to the city.
"We welcome the top-line development plans released by the existing arena recently, which demonstrate ambitious investment plans for their venue.
"We don’t have much detail yet but the updates to the existing arena are consistent with how markets respond and can thrive with two arenas.
"As an operator, my opinion is that the existing arena will continue to be an attractive prospect, if not for the current operators then for one of their competitors.”
How will you differentiate and complement each other?
"We don’t see the existing arena as competition to our proposals.
"We believe both arenas will be able to find a successful niche and complement each other, helping to grow the overall live entertainment market in Manchester.
"Their operations have little impact on our vision, though, or return on our £350m private investment. We’re the ones who are second into the Manchester market, using private funds, and that means we’re taking all the risk."
(Image: TfGM)
Transport
The new arena has raised a lot of questions around transport and local infrastructure.
However, the Etihad Campus was chosen due to its 'suitability, availability, and viability' for the proposed arena.
OVG believe it is an accessible site that is well connected to the centre by public transport with connections to the city centre and beyond.
Transport studies show that 40% of visitors, around 20,000 people, to the Etihad Stadium on match days currently arrive by non-car modes.
However, there are plans to extend the existing Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) to address concerns of local residents.
Additionally, promoting and incentivising sustainable transport modes along with improved walking routes, cycling infrastructure and signage will promote active travel options.
How will local infrastructure cope with the influx of more people?
Tim said: "We chose the Etihad Campus site for our new arena partly because of its excellent access to the city centre.
"The Etihad Stadium regularly attracts crowds of over 55,000 and given our arena will usually have a capacity around 20,000, all the analysis shows the existing infrastructure can more than cope with the numbers that will be attending the arena.
"However, we want to go even further and that’s why we’re including enhancements to sustainable modes of transport in our proposals, including cycling and walking.
"As part of our proposals, we want to enhance the excellent existing transport connections. We want to work with TfGM to increase capacity on trams and bus services, and will also provide shuttle bus services for events at the arena.
"Our transport strategy aims to make sustainable transport choices the quickest and easiest way to access the venue and we will actively discourage the use of cars."
Will the arena stagger events so it doesn't coincide with gigs or matches at The Etihad to reduce congestion?
"Our plan is to work closely with Manchester City Football Club to coordinate events so that clashes happen as infrequently as possible.
"On the rare occasions when events do coincide, perhaps when a match has been rearranged at short notice, we will work closely with the Etihad Campus team, the council and the police to ensure we are all aligned."
Safety
Safety for visitors to the new arena is paramount and OVG will have a robust security strategy.
This will be developed alongside Greater Manchester Police, counter terrorism advisers, Prevent Advisors, and the existing Etihad Campus operations team.
The requirements of ‘Martyn’s Law’ will be incorporated into the licensing conditions of the venue.
What are your plans to keep the arena safe?
"The safety and security of people attending any of our arenas is my number one priority.
"Prevent Advisors, OVG’s own world-leading pioneering security advisory service, is led by Special Operations, Law Enforcement and Venue Management professionals who are experts in public venue security.
"They will work alongside Greater Manchester Police, Counter-terrorism advisers, and existing Etihad Campus operations team on a robust security strategy.
"Through Prevent Advisors, we also have plans to launch an innovative new sanitation advisory arm to ensure all our arenas have first class hygiene and sanitation protocols."
Inclusivity
How will the venue cater for everyone including those with mental health issues, deafness or those who are partially sighted?
"We want to lead the industry in ending exclusivity at live events, and that’s why our proposals in Manchester put inclusivity at the heart of the design.
"Our venue will be fully accessible, offer wheelchair access across all levels as well as providing sensory rooms and changing places facilities.
"The venue is aiming to be certified for the Attitude is Everything Gold Standard on opening, the highest certification for inclusivity in the live entertainment industry."
Sustainability
How will the design of the arena be environmentally-friendly and sustainable?
"I think climate change is the fight of our generation, and the arena will aim to be the most sustainable arena in the UK.
"Our proposals significantly exceed all of Manchester’s planning policy requirements on sustainability and supports Manchester City Council’s Net Zero 2038 commitment.
"Our plans incorporate renewable energy sources and low energy or energy efficient technology throughout. The new arena will also utilise rainwater harvesting and storage to minimise water use.
"The arena will lead the industry in waste management with targets for elimination of single-use plastics, a surplus food donation programme and we will ensure that no waste is taken to landfill from the venue."
To find out more and have your say on the application please visit Manchester City Council's planning portal.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-04--Man City could help Eric Garcia take over from Ramos and Pique

Eric Garcia ’ s decision to leave Barcelona in 2017 is no longer uncommon .
The lack of a clear progression pathway for the club ’ s top youth prospects means plenty of them have jumped ship .
Manchester City benefitted from the arrival of both Garcia and Adrian Bernabe from the Catalan club , and both moves have been mutually profitable .
City boss Pep Guardiola gets to call upon a young central defender at a time where there is to be a changing of the guard at the Etihad , while the 19-year-old has a realistic chance of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boss Luis Enrique .
While La Masia looks to arm its students with the tools required to play football at the top level in a possession-heavy and aesthetically-pleasing manner , by 2017 there was no certainty that success at Barca ’ s academy would lead to a first-team breakthrough .
That was the situation facing Garcia , so a move to Manchester was his best hope of getting an immediate chance to play a flowing , tactically intelligent football .
Guardiola enshrines plenty of elements from La Masia ’ s teachings in his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when acclimatising in England - such as how to use the ball with composure , how to create space and how to play out calmly from defence .
Despite Garcia only playing in a handful of competitive games across the Premier League , League Cup , Champions League and FA Cup , that is more than can be said for Barca ’ s young defenders who have sat behind Gerard Pique , Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet in the pecking order over the last calendar year .
Of course , he is yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the equation for Spain ’ s senior side , but Garcia is playing above his age with his country ’ s under-21s having already captained the under-19s .
For City , too , he has captained their under-18s and under-19s in the UEFA Youth League .
His leadership qualities are clear .
At a time when Aymeric Laporte is City ’ s pillar of strength at centre back , Nicolas Otamendi looks rash and John Stones struggles to recover his confidence , next season feels like one of great potential for Garcia .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ up as the heir to David Silva , it could soon be a partnership of Laporte and Garcia in defence .
That would be the dream situation that his agents will have mapped out over the last three years .
If Garcia had remained in Barcelona , his hopes would have been set on a couple of games in the Copa del Rey next season .
Right now , proving to Luis Enrique that he can play a role for Spain at the next World Cup doesn ’ t seem a million miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been confident about his potential and temperament at youth level , while the question of Sergio Ramos ’ international retirement is sure to arise soon .
The 34-year-old Raul Albiol has been given a chance at centre back for La Roja of late , while the likes of Pau Torres and Mario Hermoso will hope to break into the reckoning alongside the more established figure of Inigo Martinez .
With the era of Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique set to come to an end over the next year or so , there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defender to make his name for Spain .
Had he stayed at Barcelona , Garcia wouldn ’ t have had the audacity to even dream .
But with City and Guardiola , he has an outside chance of taking a huge stride forward in the space of just one Premier League campaign .

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Eric Garcia’s decision to leave Barcelona in 2017 is no longer uncommon. The lack of a clear progression pathway for the club’s top youth prospects means plenty of them have jumped ship.
Manchester City benefitted from the arrival of both Garcia and Adrian Bernabe from the Catalan club, and both moves have been mutually profitable.
City boss Pep Guardiola gets to call upon a young central defender at a time where there is to be a changing of the guard at the Etihad, while the 19-year-old has a realistic chance of proving himself ahead of time to Spain boss Luis Enrique.
A stylistic match
While La Masia looks to arm its students with the tools required to play football at the top level in a possession-heavy and aesthetically-pleasing manner, by 2017 there was no certainty that success at Barca’s academy would lead to a first-team breakthrough.
That was the situation facing Garcia, so a move to Manchester was his best hope of getting an immediate chance to play a flowing, tactically intelligent football.
Guardiola enshrines plenty of elements from La Masia’s teachings in his coaching to stand Garcia in good stead when acclimatising in England - such as how to use the ball with composure, how to create space and how to play out calmly from defence.
Opportunity and responsibility
Despite Garcia only playing in a handful of competitive games across the Premier League, League Cup, Champions League and FA Cup, that is more than can be said for Barca’s young defenders who have sat behind Gerard Pique, Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet in the pecking order over the last calendar year.
Of course, he is yet to feature regularly enough to come into the equation for Spain’s senior side, but Garcia is playing above his age with his country’s under-21s having already captained the under-19s. For City, too, he has captained their under-18s and under-19s in the UEFA Youth League. His leadership qualities are clear.
At a time when Aymeric Laporte is City’s pillar of strength at centre back, Nicolas Otamendi looks rash and John Stones struggles to recover his confidence, next season feels like one of great potential for Garcia.
Just as Phil Foden is being lined up as the heir to David Silva, it could soon be a partnership of Laporte and Garcia in defence. That would be the dream situation that his agents will have mapped out over the last three years.
Time to make an impression
If Garcia had remained in Barcelona, his hopes would have been set on a couple of games in the Copa del Rey next season. Right now, proving to Luis Enrique that he can play a role for Spain at the next World Cup doesn’t seem a million miles away.
Spanish national coaches have long been confident about his potential and temperament at youth level, while the question of Sergio Ramos’ international retirement is sure to arise soon.
The 34-year-old Raul Albiol has been given a chance at centre back for La Roja of late, while the likes of Pau Torres and Mario Hermoso will hope to break into the reckoning alongside the more established figure of Inigo Martinez.
With the era of Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique set to come to an end over the next year or so, there is room for a young, confident central defender to make his name for Spain.
Had he stayed at Barcelona, Garcia wouldn’t have had the audacity to even dream. But with City and Guardiola, he has an outside chance of taking a huge stride forward in the space of just one Premier League campaign.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-04-04--Greater Manchester's lost schools - and the stars who went to them

They helped shape the childhoods of some of Greater Manchester 's biggest stars .
But while the memories these schools provided will last a lifetime , the buildings themselves are almost all long gone .
From De La Salle in Salford , former stomping ground of Tony Wilson , to Ducie Technical in Greenheys , where Inspector Morse star John Thaw , studied , these schools have all been demolished , closed or renamed .
Here we take a look at some of Greater Manchester 's vanished schools and the musicians , actors , authors and other notable figures who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fallowfield in 1900 , after being founded by the French Christian sect the Faithful Companions of Jesus .
In 1961 it moved to West Didsbury , after its original site was bought by Manchester University for student accomodation .
The school 's most notable former pupil is Royal Family creator Caroline Aherne , who reportedly got nine As in her O-levels during her time there .
It eventually closed in 1985 after the Salford Diocese merged it with St Mark 's School .
Morrissey hated his time at St Mary 's Secondary Modern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early 70s as the inspiration for the song The Headmaster Ritual .
In his 2013 autobiography he described the school as 'Kafka-esque in its nightmare ' .
But the school , which opened in 1955 before closing in the early 90s , does have its fans .
A Facebook group for ex-pupils has 600 members with many reminiscing about their time there fondly .
The oldest school on this list , Stand Grammar was founded in 1688 and had close links with the local Unitarian Chapel .
For almost 250 years it taught @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school was built on Higher Lane .
Notable former pupils include the band Elbow , who met while studying at Stand College in the early 90s , author Howard Jacobson and Robert Clive , AKA 'Clive of India ' , one of the most controversial figures in British military history , who in his role with the East India Company helped seize control of much of India .
The boys school became part of Bury College , before being demolished in 2001 , while the girls school is now Philips Park High .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul Young were both educated at this school in Greenheys in South Manchester .
Over the years it went through through several name changes , mergers and locations .
Initially there were separate schools for boys and girls , but after it became a comprehensive in 1967 classes were mixed .
In 1982 it merged with the Central High School for Boys to become Ducie Central High School for Boys .
It then moved to a site on Daisy Bank Road near Longsight before moving back to Lloyd Street North in 1995 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When the school finally closed in 2002 , it had some of the worst GCSE results in the country .
The alumni roll-call of this long-lost school reads like a who's-who of Salfordians made good .
New Order and Joy Division stars Peter Hook and Bernard Sumner , celebrated artist Harold Riley , Oscar nominee Albert Finney and renowned film director Mike Leigh all attended Salford Grammar .
Originally opened in 1904 as Salford Municipal Secondary School for Boys , the grammar school came into being in 1932 when the boys ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ School , the male pupil teachers from the Pupil Teachers Centre on Victor Street , and the day school of the Royal Technical Institute were amalgamated .
The school was abolished in 1973 when the comprehensive system was introduced in Salford .
The main school became Buile Hill High until , in 2008 , a new building was constructed and the 1956 building was demolished .
Named after the patron saint of teachers , De La Salle was run by the Christian brotherhood of the same name who lived on site .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but also strict discpline .
Its best known former pupil is Factory Records mogul Tony Wilson .
Despite it being a 35 mile round trip from his then home in Marple , Wilson attended the Weaste Lane school from 1960 to 1968 , before going on to read English at Cambridge University .
Renowned photographer Kevin Cummins , who would go on to work with several bands Wilson championed , also attended the school .
De La Salle was later converted into a sixth form college .
In 1996 , after 70 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first further education institution to close following a shake-up of the system four years earlier .
Not all the Smiths hated their time in school - some of them were indifferent to it .
Guitarist Johnny Marr and bass player Andy Rourke met at St Augustine 's Grammar in Wythenshawe in the 70s and , after initally bonding over a shared love of Neil Young , became firm pals .
But writing in 2005 Rourke told how he 'never actually grew to like the school ' , describing the teaching methods as 'antique @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at English , art and music , was slightly more complimentary .
He once told an interviewer the most useful thing about school was that he 'learned to suss out different types of people and they crop up later in life sometimes , especially the loudmouths ' .
The school opened in September 1965 , and closed just 12 years later .
Over the next few years parts of the site were used first by St John Plessington High School and later by St Paul 's High School , but by 1987 it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
Xaverian College was founded in 1905 when the Xaverian Brothers , an unordained teaching order of monks , bought Firwood Park , a grand house set in two and half acres of grounds in leafy Victoria Park .
From the off the school had a reputation for academic rigour and discipline .
Setting the tone from the outset original headmaster Brother Benedict told the school 's first speech day 'docility , obedience and hard work need to be maintained ' .
Perhaps its most notable former pupil is Clockwork Orange author @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the college between 1928 and 1935 .
His first published poems appeared in the Manchester Xaverian school magazine of 1936 Following the 1944 Education Act , a grammar school was launched at the college and taught several generations of boys until 1977 when its direct grant grammar school status ended and Xaverian became a sixth form college for boys and girls aged 16 to 19 .
The college survives to this day and has maintained its lofty reputation .
The building is also the only surviving house designed by Manchester town hall architect @ @ @

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They helped shape the childhoods of some of Greater Manchester's biggest stars.
But while the memories these schools provided will last a lifetime, the buildings themselves are almost all long gone.
From De La Salle in Salford, former stomping ground of Tony Wilson, to Ducie Technical in Greenheys, where Inspector Morse star John Thaw, studied, these schools have all been demolished, closed or renamed.
Here we take a look at some of Greater Manchester's vanished schools and the musicians, actors, authors and other notable figures who studied there.
The Hollies Convent School, West Didsbury
Hollies began life in Fallowfield in 1900, after being founded by the Faithful Companions of Jesus, an international congregation of religious women.
In 1961 it moved to West Didsbury, after its original site was bought by Manchester University for student accomodation.
(Image: Manchester Archives)
The school's most notable former pupil is Royal Family creator Caroline Aherne, who reportedly got nine As in her O-levels during her time there.
It eventually closed in 1985 after the Salford Diocese merged it with St Mark's School.
(Image: PA)
St Mary's Secondary Modern, Stretford
Morrissey hated his time at St Mary's Secondary Modern, using his experiences there in the early 70s as the inspiration for the song The Headmaster Ritual.
In his 2013 autobiography he described the school as 'Kafka-esque in its nightmare'.
But the school, which opened in 1955 before closing in the early 90s, does have its fans.
A Facebook group for ex-pupils has 600 members with many reminiscing about their time there fondly.
Stand Grammar, Whitefield
The oldest school on this list, Stand Grammar was founded in 1688 and had close links with the local Unitarian Chapel.
For almost 250 years it taught only boys until 1937 when a girls school was built on Higher Lane.
(Image: buryarchivesonline.co.uk)
Notable former pupils include the band Elbow, who met while studying at Stand College in the early 90s, author Howard Jacobson and Robert Clive, AKA 'Clive of India', one of the most controversial figures in British military history, who in his role with the East India Company helped seize control of much of India.
The boys school became part of Bury College, before being demolished in 2001, while the girls school is now Philips Park High.
Ducie Technical High School, Greenheys
Inspector Morse star John Thaw and singer Paul Young were both educated at this school in Greenheys in South Manchester.
Over the years it went through through several name changes, mergers and locations.
Initially there were separate schools for boys and girls, but after it became a comprehensive in 1967 classes were mixed.
(Image: Daily Mirror)
In 1982 it merged with the Central High School for Boys to become Ducie Central High School for Boys.
It then moved to a site on Daisy Bank Road near Longsight before moving back to Lloyd Street North in 1995, when a new £5m school was built.
When the school finally closed in 2002, it had some of the worst GCSE results in the country.
Salford Grammar
The alumni roll-call of this long-lost school reads like a who's-who of Salfordians made good.
New Order and Joy Division stars Peter Hook and Bernard Sumner, celebrated artist Harold Riley, Oscar nominee Albert Finney and renowned film director Mike Leigh all attended Salford Grammar.
(Image: Omega Auctions)
Originally opened in 1904 as Salford Municipal Secondary School for Boys, the grammar school came into being in 1932 when the boys' section of
the Central Higher Grade Scholarship School, the male pupil teachers from the Pupil Teachers Centre on Victor Street, and the day school of the Royal Technical Institute were amalgamated.
The school was abolished in 1973 when the comprehensive system was introduced in Salford.
The main school became Buile Hill High until, in 2008, a new building was constructed and the 1956 building was demolished.
De La Salle Grammar School, Pendleton
Named after the patron saint of teachers, De La Salle was run by the Christian brotherhood of the same name who lived on site.
The school had a reputation for academic excellence, but also strict discpline.
Its best known former pupil is Factory Records mogul Tony Wilson.
(Image: Mirrorpix)
Despite it being a 35 mile round trip from his then home in Marple, Wilson attended the Weaste Lane school from 1960 to 1968, before going on to read English at Cambridge University.
Renowned photographer Kevin Cummins, who would go on to work with several bands Wilson championed, also attended the school.
De La Salle was later converted into a sixth form college.
In 1996, after 70 years in existence, it became the first further education institution to close following a shake-up of the system four years earlier.
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
St Augustine's Grammar, Wythenshawe
Not all the Smiths hated their time in school - some of them were indifferent to it.
Guitarist Johnny Marr and bass player Andy Rourke met at St Augustine's Grammar in Wythenshawe in the 70s and, after initally bonding over a shared love of Neil Young, became firm pals.
But writing in 2005 Rourke told how he 'never actually grew to like the school', describing the teaching methods as 'antique'.
Marr, who reportedly excelled at English, art and music, was slightly more complimentary.
He once told an interviewer the most useful thing about school was that he 'learned to suss out different types of people and they crop up later in life sometimes, especially the loudmouths'.
(Image: Mirrorpix)
The school opened in September 1965, and closed just 12 years later.
Over the next few years parts of the site were used first by St John Plessington High School and later by St Paul's High School, but by 1987 it stood empty and was demolished the following year.
Xaverian Grammar, Victoria Park
Xaverian College was founded in 1905 when the Xaverian Brothers, an unordained teaching order of monks, bought Firwood Park, a grand house set in two and half acres of grounds in leafy Victoria Park.
From the off the school had a reputation for academic rigour and discipline.
Setting the tone from the outset original headmaster Brother Benedict told the school's first speech day 'docility, obedience and hard work need to be maintained'.
Perhaps its most notable former pupil is Clockwork Orange author Anthony Burgess.
Harpurhey -born Burgess attended the college between 1928 and 1935.
His first published poems appeared in the Manchester Xaverian school magazine of 1936
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Following the 1944 Education Act, a grammar school was launched at the college and taught several generations of boys until 1977 when its direct grant grammar school status ended and Xaverian became a sixth form college for boys and girls aged 16 to 19.
The college survives to this day and has maintained its lofty reputation.
The building is also the only surviving house designed by Manchester town hall architect Alfred Waterhouse.