Ahead of this week Champions League clash with FC Barcelona, the club has launched a first-ever smartphone app designed with away fans firmly in mind.

Available on both iOS and Android devices, CityHome, or CanCity in Catalan, will provide Barca fans with a wide range of recommendations on what to do and see whilst visiting the city of Manchester.  That could be restaurants, bars, shopping or simply sightseeing, all at the touch of a button.

CityHome can be viewed in English, Catalan or Spanish and also includes travel advice for fans making their way to the stadium by foot, bus, train or tram for the Round of 16 tie.  When the arrive at the Etihad Campus supporters can then use the app to learn about the different pre-match events taking place in the fan-zone (BT City Square) such as pundit reviews and musical performances.

In the build up to the match there are expected stats from the group stages, stats about previous encounters and other stats.  They are also encouraged to participate in the day’s ‘excitement’ by taking pics of themselves over a graphic of the two clubs’ crests.

Lastly, as if there isn’t enough on the app, they can learn about Man City through a sample of CityTV content, an introduction to New York City FC (their new MLS venture) and the Harlem Shake.

Once the match has finished the info will change to the next opponents they will be facing.  It’s a really nice idea which targets a specific set of people who may need the information they are providing.  The clubs’ Director of Marketing, Diego Gigliani, said;

“As a club that has deep roots in the community, we are extremely passionate about putting Manchester on the European map as a destination for leisure and tourism, in addition to world class football.  Our new match app has been designed to ensure visiting fans not only receive information that will enhance their match-day experience, but also their stay in this great city.”

It’s another example of Man City taking the lead when it comes to digital innovation.  Showing clubs, such as their city rivals United, the way forward in fan engagement…even when it’s not even their own fans.

Download links:  iOS (http://t.co/FBHI3btGHM), Android (http://t.co/Ftn02GXR1e)