The club has invested heavily in digital technology and will now be able to offer fans tiered membership of Gold, Platinum and Superbia. Superbia is an invite-only membership level which will only be available to fans with “the highest loyalty points, rather than the  deepest pockets.”

However, it’s the membership card itself wherein the technology lies. Fans will be able to use it to watch 3D content with augmented reality, which is a football industry first. Each card contains a QR code, an augmented reality marker and an internal RFID (radio frequency identification) chip. So all supporters have to do is point their phone or web cam at it to reveal more.

“We have listened to our fans and delivered what they asked for.  We are retaining the loyalty scheme and preserving points accumulated to date by our fans but are also adding more rewards.  Membership also takes the club digital, using the best in class systems to deliver a cutting edge experience for all fans,” explained chief brand & commercial officer for Manchester City, Ian Cafferky.

“Now you can build the membership that suits you and enjoy exclusive rewards on our new auction site such as flying on the plane with the team to a game. It is a great platform to bring all our fans closer to the club and create a new level of convenience and entertainment.”

One lucky member will also receive a Willy Wonka-style golden ticket, although Manchester City wouldn’t reveal what that means - we're assuming it's not the key to Eastlands, more likely a great Blue elevator.