Manchester City have established themselves as a dominant force in English football, becoming regular favourites to win the Premier League in the sports betting markets.
Pep Guardiola’s side have just secured an unprecedented fourth successive top-flight title. This triumph marks their eighth Premier League success since 2011, highlighting their transformation into a footballing powerhouse.
Each title win has charted the club’s journey from pre-Shiekh Mansour’s ownership to the zenith of English football.
Here, we delve into the key moments and figures that have defined Manchester City’s rise up the ranks of the Premier League.
Roberto Mancini ends the title drought
The 2011-12 season was a pivotal moment for Manchester City, marking the beginning of their ascent to the top of English football. Under the guidance of Roberto Mancini, City ended a 44-year league title drought.
The dramatic finale of the season saw Sergio Aguero’s last-gasp goal against Queens Park Rangers, a moment that secured the title on goal difference over their fierce rivals, Manchester United.
This victory was more than just a title win — it was a statement that City were a force to be reckoned with.
Manuel Pellegrini restores champion status
After finishing runners-up to Manchester United in the 2012-13 season, Manchester City were determined to reclaim their champion status.
Under Chilean coach Manuel Pellegrini, they did just that in the 2013-14 season. The title race was fiercely contested, with Liverpool appearing set to end their own long wait for a league title.
However, a late-season slip-up by Liverpool, famously symbolised by Steven Gerrard’s slip against Chelsea, allowed City to seize the opportunity.
They, ultimately, clinched the title by a narrow two-point margin, reaffirming their place at the top of English football.
The Pep Guardiola era
The arrival of Spanish tactician Pep Guardiola in 2016 ushered in a period of newfound success for Manchester City.
Guardiola’s philosophy, tactical acumen, and relentless pursuit of perfection transformed City into a dominant force.
During his tenure, City have won six Premier League titles, with only Liverpool and Chelsea managing to interrupt their dominance.
Guardiola’s era has been marked by record-breaking achievements. In the 2017-18 season, City became the first team in Premier League history to accumulate 100 points. They also won the league by a record 19-point margin.
This season, City made history once again by securing their fourth consecutive Premier League title, a feat never before achieved in the competition’s history.
A blueprint for sustained success
Manchester City’s dominance is underpinned by a combination of financial power and strategic vision.
The club’s acquisition by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008 provided the financial backing necessary to attract top-tier talent and invest in world-class facilities.
However, their success is not solely due to financial strength. City’s strategic planning, innovative use of data, and commitment to developing a strong youth academy have been critical to their sustained success.
Guardiola’s meticulous approach to management, emphasis on tactical flexibility, and ability to maintain high standards have been crucial. His influence extends beyond tactics — he has instilled a winning mentality throughout the club.
