Nigerian youngsters Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidi Nwakali will now train at the new, arguably the most sophisticated and high-tech Manchester city training ground.
City went through 19 different designs versions before settling on the final one and looked at more than 70 different sporting facilities in Europe, USA and Australia for inspiration.
There are total of 16 outdoor pitches, including the main academy stadium pitch, a protected first team pitch for setpiece work and 14 other playing surfaces, plus two half-pitches for goalkeeper training.
Amongst other features, there are 32 en-suite bedrooms for the players and coaching staff, based on four-star hotels, all based on modern hotel designs and tailored to suit the needs of the players, including specifically-made beds and blackout blinds.
City's players used to stay in Manchester's Hilton Hotel before home games, but Zabaleta said staying in the purpose-built residential complex at the training ground was far better for the squad.
“It's better than a hotel because it's more private here,” said Zabaleta. “We don't see people around and it's more comfortable for the team.
“Then there's the facilities – the dressing-room, the spa, even the restaurant and canteen are fantastic. Everything you can imagine is in there.
“As a player coming in for training every day, it's much better here than in my house! I don't care if I spend eight or nine hours here.
“I remember when they were talking about City building a new training ground, but I didn't expect it to be this big.
Nigerians will be hoping City's latest facilities will aid the career of the youngsters which also means success in the national set up in the near future.
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