Taking place on Sunday 15 November, during the next men’s international break, ‘Game4Ricky’ will bring together stars from the world of sport and entertainment to celebrate Ricky’s life and legacy, while raising vital funds to support mental health initiatives.
The match will kick off at 14:15 (UK), with tickets going on sale today.
Line-ups will include former players, stars from other sports, musicians and well-known faces from television and entertainment.
Organised by LGNDS, proceeds from the event will support the vital work of Manchester City’s charity, City in the Community (CITC), helping to create a positive legacy in Ricky’s name while supporting mental health initiatives across Greater Manchester and beyond, including through programmes such as ‘City Thrive’.
Through one-to-one mentoring and classroom educational workshops, City Thrive creates safe spaces for young people to talk about their mental health, develop confidence and build tools to support their emotional wellbeing.
Campbell Hatton, commenting on Ricky’s connection to Manchester, said: “This city meant everything to my dad, and he was always so proud of how Manchester unites when it matters most.
“Seeing the red and blue sides of the city come together under the black and yellow of the bee at the Joie Stadium is incredibly moving. Mental health is a battle nobody should have to fight alone.
“By working with the absolute best in the business for stadium broadcasts, we are bringing international stars here to show the world how Manchester looks after its own.”
City in the Community Chief Executive, Mike Geary, added: “Ricky was one of our own. A lifelong Blue who carried his love for Manchester City with him onto some of the biggest stages in world sport, while always remaining incredibly connected to the people and communities of Manchester.
“It therefore feels particularly meaningful that funds raised through Game4Ricky will create a positive legacy in his name.
“For City in the Community, that support will help us continue to empower healthier lives through football across Greater Manchester. Through programmes such as City Thrive, we provide dedicated mental health support to young people, creating safe spaces where they can connect, build confidence and develop tools to support their emotional wellbeing.
“We’re incredibly proud to be part of Game4Ricky. Every pound raised will help make a tangible difference to people’s lives – a fitting legacy for someone who meant so much to this city.”
Full squad announcements will be released in the coming days and weeks. A range of general admission and hospitality tickets are available to purchase from today.
