Just to clarify some points raised concerning the flight over to Abu Dhabi.
The MCFC party was flown from Manchester Airport to Abu Dhabi aboard an Etihad Airbus A330-300 aircraft [A6-AFF] which was specially chartered for the occasion. Etihad Airways does operate a twice daily scheduled service on the route, but the exclusive MCFC charter operated in addition to these and was timed to meet the travel needs of the club.
In answer to the question asking why the Manchester City FC liveried aircraft was not used for the trip … Airbus A330-200 [A6-EYE] "Bluemoon Rising" is configured with Business Class and Economy Class layout only. It does not have a First Class section. The aircraft which was used [A6-AFF] has a large First Class cabin … I wonder who got the best seats?!!! Obviously, Abu Dhabi wants to provide the best possible travel experience for the double-winning MCFC squad.
Whenever City have made high profile trips to Abu Dhabi, a First Class equipped aircraft has been provided. For that reason, it is also highly unlikely that A6-EYE "Bluemoon Rising" will fly them home at the end of the trip either.
Just to add … my personal congratulations to all at MCFC on a fantastic season!