Rangers supporters were yesterday urged not to travel to Manchester for the Uefa Cup final unless they already have a ticket for the match. Police in the city also called on fans of both Rangers and Zenit St Petersburg to create a “carnival atmosphere” ahead of the game on May 14, as they announced details of a major policing operation.

The final will be played in front of 44,000 supporters at the City of Manchester Stadium but up to 100,000 are expected to try to make their way to Manchester. Two “fan zones” will be set up in the city centre but will only be open to those with match tickets – as will several bars and pubs. There will also be a heavy police presence around the ground to prevent ticketless fans from getting close to the stadium.

Chief Superintendent Gerry Donnellan, of Greater Manchester Police and commander for the fixture, said he was confident that Manchester would be able to cope with hosting the event.

“We are keen to stress that football fans should only come to Manchester if they have a valid ticket for the match,” he said. “Our planning is underpinned by a desire for all fans with tickets to come to Manchester to enjoy the atmosphere and the game - they will get a genuine warm reception.

“I hope the match will be an enjoyable event for everyone who attends and that a carnival atmosphere will be created by the genuine supporters, which will demonstrate all that is good about the game in the UK. There are two fantastic teams hoping to get their hands on a major European trophy and we are thrilled at having been chosen to host such an exciting fixture.”

Supporters were also warned they may struggle to find accommodation unless they have already done so. A spokesman for Greater Manchester’s tourist board said rooms in the city had been reserved for some time. “Hotels have obviously been inundated with calls this morning but they have been booked up for weeks,” he added.