Pundit issues 'weird' Man City verdict after plan revealed by journalist
Paul Robinson has backed Man City to increase the capacity of their stadium to 60,000 seats.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number one suggested the expansion would enable the Premier League champions to be more attractive to the corporate world.
As reported by the Daily Mail's Dominic Hogan (15 September), City have unveiled plans to expand the Etihad's capacity to around 60,000 spectators.
The stadium currently holds 55,000 - the fifth most in the Premier League.
Pep Guardiola's side had an average attendance of 52,738 in the 2021-22 campaign. [transfermarkt]
When asked by Football Insider if expanding the Etihad was a smart move from City, Robinson said: "Football is becoming more and more corporate.
"Man City are more of an appeal than ever and the Premier League is a global tourist attraction. It is only going to grow.
"Yes, Man City have been criticised for not being able to fill their stadium in certain games. But in big games they obviously can.
"Maine Road used to be brilliant. It was always full regardless of who they were playing and what league they were in. I have to say, it does seem weird that they cannot fill it for all occasions.
"It is a very nice stadium as well. It looks great."
Man City beat Wolves 3-0 on Saturday (17 September).
They are second in the Premier League behind Arsenal.