Typically, when the Champions League arrives, fans eagerly line up for tickets, except for Manchester City supporters.

In fact, the Etihad club announced that only 40,042 attended their 5-1 victory over AEK Athens, leaving over 20,000 seats empty.

Fans who braved the chilly Tuesday night witnessed Phil Foden’s hat-trick performance.

Additionally, there was Elliot Anderson’s inaugural Champions League goal, alongside a goal from Rayan Cherki to please Enzo Maresca’s attacking squad.

Unfortunately, this impressive performance was witnessed by a stadium that was only two-thirds filled.

Footage obtained by SunSport revealed the extent of the empty seats, with much of the upper stadium reflecting the club’s blue colors rather than a vibrant crowd cheering for the team.

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To be fair, many might have opted out of braving the cold and spending their hard-earned money on a rainy Tuesday night for a match against AEK Athens, which is not seen as crucial in the league stage of the Champions League.

Moreover, Manchester City’s relationship with UEFA is strained due to past sanctions, so some fans might begrudge the once-prestigious tournament, often expressing their dissatisfaction through boos during the anthem; however, they definitely turn out for knockout rounds.

Fans reacting to social media images were surprised and couldn’t resist mocking the longstanding stereotype of the club’s inability to fill seats.

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

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

A third added: “Yet we’re still meant to believe they compete with Real Madrid in revenue.”

One more said: “It’s the Emptyhad.”

Despite the absence of some fans, City’s coach Maresca was unconcerned.

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After the match, he told reporters: “I think those in the stadium were great. They were top in our last game against Ipswich.”

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

City currently lead the Premier League with a flawless record, having only lost to the two-time defending European Champions, Paris Saint-Germain.

Thus, there is an argument that fans are hesitant to spend their hard-earned money on a game of lesser significance.

However, the club faces the looming threat of potential sanctions following an Independent Commission’s guilty verdict regarding their alleged financial violations in the Premier League.

City has been found guilty of over 100 charges, including all the alleged financial irregularities.

They firmly deny any misconduct and are currently appealing the ruling.

Reports suggest the club might face severe sanctions, including a record-setting fine and points deduction if the appeal is unsuccessful.