Eric Clapton returning to Manchester for first time in 10 years as second artist announced for Co-op Live

Music legend Eric Clapton has confirmed he will be performing in Manchester for the first time in ten years as part of Co-op Live’s opening season.

Set to be the UK’s largest arena when it opens in April 2024, the £365 million indoor venue - located near Manchester City's Etihad stadium - will host 25 shows in its first month, with the Jonas Brothers recently unveiled as first of the gigs to be announced.

Regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Clapton will perform at Co-op Live on May 18, 2024 and it will mark his first performance here in more than a decade. He last performed in the city in May 2013 as part of his 50th anniversary tour.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features.

The performer has sold more than 280 million records worldwide and has received 18 Grammy Awards and a BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. Clapton’s appearance at Co-op Live will be one of nine dates on his upcoming UK and Ireland tour.

Gary Roden, Executive Director & General Manager, Co-op Live, says: “We are thrilled that Eric Clapton will return to Manchester for the first time in ten years as part of Co-op Live’s opening season from April 2024.

“With Co-op Live’s intimate design, there will be no better place to see him play his decades-long list of classic songs. We look forward to revealing some of the other artists performing during our opening season in the coming weeks.”

The 23,500-capacity arena is being built by BAM Construct UK and is being led by a joint venture between City Football Group and Los Angeles-based Oak View Group. The arena will boast an innovative bowl design and a large standing floor to bring fans closer to artists.

Eric Clapton