Shaun Wright-Phillips, along with other Academy products Willo Flood, Jonathan D'Laryea, Nedum Onuoha and brother Bradley, joined chairman John Wardle to open the new £500,000 purpose built dome at Platt Lane.
The dome incorporates the latest artificial pitch technology, with a playing surface measuring 60m by 40m, and will be used by City’s Academy staff to coach kids from under 8 upwards.
The Academy has been partly funded by contributions from club backers, including Endsleigh Insurance who make a financial contribution every time a City fan takes out a policy.
16 first-team players have been produced since the Academy took on its current guise 6 years ago, and chairman Wardle recognises it's importance to the club's development.
"It is fundamental to the future of our club," he told the M.E.N. "The coaches and support staff should be very proud of their achievements.
"We are naturally delighted that our investment in the Academy is paying such great dividends with our young players making a huge impact on the first team. We plan to continue to invest in youth as much as we can."
Academy chief, Jim Cassell added: "The new dome is a fantastic addition to our complex. Platt Lane plays an important role in our community, providing superb leisure facilities to local people."