When the Champions League kicks off, fans usually rush to buy tickets—except for those supporting Manchester City.

The club at Etihad reported only 40,042 attendees for their 5-1 win over AEK Athens, leaving more than 20,000 seats vacant.

Those who faced the cold on a Tuesday night were treated to a spectacular hat-trick by Phil Foden.

Additionally, Elliot Anderson scored his first Champions League goal, with Rayan Cherki also scoring, much to the delight of Enzo Maresca’s attacking lineup.

Regrettably, this brilliant display was enjoyed by a stadium that was only partially full.

Footage shared by SunSport illustrated the abundance of empty seats, as much of the upper tier showcased the club’s blue hues instead of a lively crowd cheering for their team.

Admittedly, many fans may have chosen to stay warm and not spend their hard-earned cash on a game against AEK Athens, which isn’t perceived as critical in the group stage of the Champions League.

Moreover, Manchester City’s relationship with UEFA has been strained due to previous sanctions, causing some fans to feel disillusioned with a tournament they once held in high regard, often expressing their grievances through boos during the anthem; however, turnout tends to be much better during the knockout rounds.

Fans reacting on social media were astonished at the sight and couldn’t help but poke fun at the well-known stereotype surrounding the club’s struggles to fill seats.

One user quipped: “This is a Champions League game, folks.”

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Another remarked: “It’s incredible how empty it is…”

A third added: “And yet we’re supposed to believe they rival Real Madrid in revenue.”

Someone else commented: “It’s the Emptyhad.”

Despite some fans’ absence, City’s coach Maresca was unperturbed.

Following the match, he told reporters: “I think those who came were fantastic. They were brilliant in our last match against Ipswich.”

“And next week we face two matches against Brighton, and I have no doubt the atmosphere will be superb once again.”

Manchester City currently leads the Premier League with an impeccable record, having only lost to the two-time reigning European Champions, Paris Saint-Germain.

This raises the question of whether fans are reluctant to invest their hard-earned money on a match of lesser importance.

However, the club is dealing with the impending repercussions of potential sanctions after an Independent Commission ruled against them regarding alleged financial misconduct in the Premier League.

They have been found guilty of more than 100 charges concerning alleged financial irregularities.

Mancity staunchly denies any wrongdoing and is actively appealing the ruling.

Reports indicate that the club could face serious consequences, potentially including a record fine and points deduction if the appeal fails.