Manchester City in the early hours of today unveiled the permanent statues of Club icons Vincent Kompany and David Silva at the Etihad Stadium.
The Etihad side confirmed the unveiling to its fans all over the world in a “specially commissioned” video to mark the remarkable occasion.
The statutes of both Kompany and Silva are situated on the east side of the Etihad and were created by a Scottish award-winning sculptor, Andy Scott who reportedly used thousands of galvanized steel that will glamorize the illumination of the statutes, especially at night with blue-tinted lighting.
Now installed at the Etihad Stadium, the permanent statues provide a visible reminder of the instrumental role both Kompany and Silva played in contributing to the most decorated era in the Club’s 127-year history.
Commenting on the statues following their installation at the stadium, former captains of the club, Kompany and Silva have this to say:
“I didn't really expect to be recognised by such a great club in that way. My wife is from Manchester, my kids are born in Manchester, and they go back to a place where they can see something that represents what their Dad has achieved and that is something that I can't describe.
“The first time I saw the statue I couldn't believe how big it was, but then again, I'm a big boy, so fair enough! And then especially the pose, for me it means a lot.” – Vincent Kompany.
“Being at City changed my life. I'm proud of what we did together and I feel emotional that it has been recognised like this.
“When I first saw the statue, I felt good, I thought it was like me. This statue really represents the way I like to play, I love the pose the sculptor has chosen. It really reminds me of those times I was on the pitch playing and that moment when I had to find the striker.” – David Silva
The newly constructed and installed statutes will in no doubt be a side of attraction to City fans when Arsenal comes visiting the Etihad for a Premier League clash on Saturday afternoon.
This article was most recently revised and updated 3 years ago