Fire at Man City stadium before Champions League game

New City signings Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis were also due to make a public appearance nearby, but it was cancelled as a result.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze, but the smell of smoke remained in the air for some time afterwards as supporters waited to be let inside.

"Crews arrived quickly at the scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to extinguish the fire, they are currently dampening down any hotspots and making the area safe," Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said.

There were no reported injuries.

"The safety of all attending the match tonight is our top priority, and as such all events planned for West Stand reception have been cancelled, including the welcome event for new players, and the first-team arrival," City said in a statement.

UEFA said there would be no delay to the scheduled 8 pm kick-off for the match that City have to win to book a place in the play-offs for the round-of-16.