Man City plane grounded at Manchester Airport after being blocked from flying to China

The Manchester City staff looked confused at check-in [Courtesy]

Manchester City have confirmed they will be forced to travel to China on Sunday after their flight was grounded at Manchester Airport.

Pep Guardiola and his squad were set to jet out to Shanghai on Saturday evening to begin their pre-season tour.

But Etihad staff were stranded at Manchester Airport after being blocked from flying out.

The Aeronexus private jet carrying City's players was grounded close to Terminal 2 due to an 'administrative issue'

Staff members appeared confused at the check-in desks with their luggage.

A City statement read: "Due to an unforeseen administrative issue beyond the club’s control, which is being resolved, regrettably, we will embark on our pre-season tour a little later than intended.

"We will now travel tomorrow and look forward to taking part in the Premier League Asia Trophy as planned."

City are due to face West Ham in the Premier League Asia Trophy on Wednesday.

They will then play in the final against Newcastle or Wolves if they win that match.

City will then take on Kitchee FC on Wednesday, July 24 as they step up their pre-season plans.

The developments surrounding the flight came shortly after City confirmed their squad for the pre-season tour.

Sergio Aguero, Nicolas Otamendi, Gabriel Jesus, Fernandinho and Ederson have all not travelled due to their Copa America excursions while Riyad Mahrez has been involved in th Africa Cup of Nations.

Fabian Delph has also stayed at home after City agreed an £8.5m deal with Everton for the England midfielder.

Summer signings Rodri and Angelino could play some part for City in the coming weeks.