Three Manchester City footballers have helped launch a new luxury property development in the heart of the city. 

The new luxury apartment scheme is being built by UK-based Select Property Group, a global provider of investment property with offices in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. It has projects in the UAE, including The Torch tower in Dubai Marina.

England international James Milner and French teammates Bacary Sagna and Eliaquim Mangala lent some Premier League glamour as they launched construction of the 17-storey project.

According to Select Property Group, the CitySuites development, situated within the Greengate regeneration project, is targeted at the growing number of business travellers that are staying in Manchester on either a permanent or short term contract basis. 

The project, close to Manchester’s spectacular Gothic cathedral, will be equipped with the same levels of service as a luxury hotel, while tenants will also benefit from a concierge service. 

Trevor Moore, chief operating officers of Select Property Group, commented: “With its global supporter base and on field successes, MCFC helps promote Manchester to a worldwide audience on a weekly basis. Manchester’s appeal similarly transfers to the business world, with the region an important European enterprise location.” 

He added: “This has seen more international businesses and organisations locate to the city to benefit from a strong economy, fantastic transport links and a rich, vibrant culture.”

Manchester City Football Club was purchased in 2008 by Abu Dhabi United Group, the private equity company owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family. During their ownership they have made great efforts to reach out to the community and give the local area a facelift though various regeneration projects.