A FIRE has broken out just outside the Etihad in front of thousands of fans only hours before Manchester City's Champions League clash.
The Premier League champions host Club Brugge needing a win to guarantee qualification into the knockout stages.
But footage just hours before kick-off showed a merchandise van outside the stadium on fire.
Fire trucks and ambulances were seen also rushing to the scene as thousands of fans looked on in shock.
The surrounding area was evacuated as emergency services put out the fire.
Fans had been preparing to get themselves inside the stadium in a bid to cheer on hosts.
City sit 25th in the new-look League Phase table - just outside the top 16 play-off spots.
To progress, Pep Guardiola's side must secure a win due to goal difference of the teams around them.
The top eight automatically qualify for the last 16 and are joined by the winners of a play-off round between those that finished ninth to 24th.
Those that finish 25th to 36th are eliminated from all European competition - teams no longer drop into the Europa League.