Manchester City Women have announced their pre-season friendly against Serie A side Fiorentina, set to take place at Rocco B. Commisso Viola Park in Florence. The reigning Barclays Women’s Super League champions and FA Cup holders will face the Italian outfit on [exact date not provided in source], with kick-off now scheduled for 19:00 UK time (20:00 local time). The Blues, who currently lead the WSL by 4 points over Arsenal with 55 points from 22 games (18W-1D-3L), will use this fixture as part of their preparations for the new season, which begins on the weekend of 4/5/6 September.

When and where is the match?

The friendly will be held at Fiorentina’s home ground, Rocco B. Commisso Viola Park, with tickets available for purchase through the ACF Fiorentina website. Prices start at €2 for children under 6, while adults can secure seats for €10. Manchester City Women supporters will be allocated a designated area in the West Stand (Tribuna Ovest).

Why is this friendly important?

This match provides Manchester City Women with a valuable opportunity to test themselves against top European opposition ahead of their return to the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Director of Football Therese Sjogran emphasized the importance of facing different styles of play, stating, "Facing a team from a different country in a testing environment is great preparation."

What’s the recent history between the two teams?

The last meeting between Manchester City Women and Fiorentina came in the 2021 UEFA Women’s Champions League Round of 16, where the Blues secured an 8-0 aggregate victory. Fiorentina, who finished fourth in Serie A last season, narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification. The Italian side will provide a stern test for Gareth Taylor’s squad, who have scored 62 goals and conceded just 19 in the WSL this season (+43 goal difference).

How can fans attend?

Tickets are available for purchase online or in person at the stadium, with cashless payments only accepted on matchday. Supporters are advised to review Fiorentina’s access guide and stadium regulations before traveling. The match is part of Manchester City Women’s pre-season schedule, which includes several friendlies before their WSL opener in September.