A city of sport

Sport is part of Manchester’s DNA. Whether you’re interested in the glamour of the Premier League or want to see a test match at one of the world’s oldest professional cricket grounds, you’ll find almost every sport here.

But sport in Manchester is much more than recreation for our students. It provides a wide range of career paths and job opportunities, from physiotherapy to event management. With superb facilities and strong industry connections – including links with Manchester City FC and the Manchester Giants Basketball team – sport isn’t just part of the city. It’s a big part of Manchester Met too.

Iconic venues hosting world-class events

Football

Home to not one but two world-renowned football clubs offering top-level Premier League and, more often than not, Champions League football. You’ll see a collection of the biggest stars on the planet at two of the country’s most prestigious arenas – Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium and Manchester United’s Old Trafford. A must-experience for any football fan, all you need to do is pick a side.

If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, Greater Manchester is also home to dozens of Football League and non-league clubs. Most usually offer reduced priced admission for students. There’s also the National Football Museum in the city centre, which celebrates the rich history and heritage of the beautiful game.

Rugby

Shared by Sale Sharks and Salford Red Devils, the AJ Bell Stadium is the go-to place to catch both codes of rugby. Located in Eccles to the west of the city centre. 

Cricket

Home to Lancashire Cricket Club, Old Trafford Cricket Ground (located close to the football ground) is one of the oldest and most prestigious stadiums in the country. You’ll see all disciplines of the sport here, from Twenty20 right the way through to full Test cricket in both the men’s and women’s game. There’s also plenty of international cricket on display, with England matches usually drawing capacity crowds.

National centres for your favourite sports

Manchester is home to the national centres for basketball, cycling, lacrosse, squash, taekwondo and water polo. With these centres on your doorstep, you’ll have ample opportunity to spectate, and take part in, your favourite sport.