Brazilian playmaker Elano made a huge impact in his two years here between 2007 and 2009.
He arrived as one of the first signings of the Sven-Goran Eriksson reign and went on to be adored by the sky blue faithful.
The attacking midfielder made his debut on the opening day of the 2007/08 season at West Ham United, providing the cross for Rolando Bianchi’s opening goal in a 2-0 win.
His third game was the Manchester derby, a game that we won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Geovanni.
Elano helped City to a ninth place finish and ended the campaign as leading scorer.
He scored several memorable goals across his time with the Club – including one extraordinary free-kick against Newcastle - as well as providing countless assists.
Elano has flown into Manchester for the Cottagers game and will be here to help us celebrate ‘Bahia in Manchester’.
The popular ex-Blues star will head pitchside pre-match to be interviewed by Club TV so make sure you’re in your seats to give him a huge welcome back to the Etihad.
Bringing together football and music, Saturday’s ‘Bahia in Manchester’ festivities will celebrate Bahia’s unique identity and welcome the newest club into the City Football Group family.
As well as Elano, Carlinhos Brown – one of the most prominent Brazilian musical artists of today and a Bahia football fan – will be our star guest for the game on Saturday.
His electric trio truck will entertain fans and bring the Bahia traditions to Manchester.
Carlinhos will be performing outside our West Reception pre-game, A Dama and O Maestro will be showcasing their musical repertoire on stage outside East Reception while Corridor of Timbaleiros, Traditional Brazilian drummers, will play in the Kids Fanzone.
Oscar nominee and Latin Grammy winner Carlinhos will also be gifting tokens of Bahian culture, including the famous Lord of Bonfim ribbons, to supporters on the day.
Pagode baiano musicians will join Carlinhos for his performances – and he will make a special appearance on the pitch just before kick-off, too, alongside Elano, before performing his own rendition of City anthem ‘Blue Moon’.
Other Bahian traditions will be on display at the stadium including a capoeira presentation and the Bahia mascots who will join City’s mascots Moonchester and Moonbeam.
The activities are supported by the Government of the State of Bahia, the Municipality of Salvador and club partners: Axi, Socios.com and Esportes da Sorte.
