Citizens celebrate record treble
Manchester City, led by their enigmatic manager Pep Guardiola did the unimaginable last Saturday night by becoming not only the champions of European club football, but by winning the treble. This feat had only been achieved by their neighbours and rivals Manchester United under the stewardship of Sir Alex Ferguson in 1999. Years have long gone by as fans, pundits and supporters debated whether we would ever witness such achievements once more from these shores. Well, Manchester City have delivered, and delivered emphatically.
Premier League Winners
City, for the most part of the season were 2nd to Arsenal until the latter stages of the season. However, Guardiola was able to rally the troops and lead the charge to glory much to the dismay of some Gooners. At one stage, Arsenal were 10 points clear and sat in pole position (still wondering how they didn’t win it) with the finish line in sight. Echoes of bottle jobs could be heard in the terraces up and down the country.
Both teams met in what was almost a title decider with Manchester City claiming a one sided victory on 26 April 2023, winning 4-1. They showed why they are the most dominant side in the premier league and have been for the past 6 years under Guardiola. Credit to Arsenal for the courage shown in this campaign but realistically, City were always favourite for the title. The gunners are now afforded a place in the champions league next season alongside Newcastle United and Manchester United respectively. There is no doubt that next season will prove even tougher for City, as the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea will want to stake a claim at the coveted title. With that being said, Arsenal may find finishing in the top four out of reach whilst North London rival Tottenham will be praying for a miracle let alone top 6.
FA Cup Winners
No one can deny that City were the better side in the FA Cup final and could possibly have had a more flattering result. The Citizens beat Manchester United 2-1 at Wembley stadium. All the pre-game talk alluded to United trying to prevent City from claiming the double and potential treble. Yet again, Pep’s men proved why they are an elite group. City captain Gundogan put in a man of the match worthy performance, netting twice to ensure that the FA cup would dwell on the blue side of Manchester.
With the FA Cup now secured, you could see a lot of anxiety in the faces of United fans whilst 99% of City fans remained jubilant, knowing they had more hurdle to achieve immortality. And, who would bet against them?
Champions League Final
All that can be said is the best team in European Club football won. Manchester City have been unfortunate in recent years in this competition, however, when the stars align, the stars align and greatness is destined to be fulfilled. City won the match 1-0 against Inter Milan who definitely gave a good account of themselves and could have won the game but for the outstanding saves from the City keeper Ederson.
Manchester City will be formidable again next season and will remain the team to beat. There aren’t many teams out there that play to the same standards. Real Madrid will certainly pose a threat next season and with the acquisition of Bellingham, they will definitely be strong.
West Ham – Europa Conference League Champions
West Ham and especially manager David Moyes deserve all the praise they have received for their heroics in the Europa Conference League final. Jarrod Bowen’s 90th minute goal gave the Hammers a 2-1 victory over Italian side Fiorentia. The East End of London partied all night long. It’s quite remarkable acknowledging West Ham as the most successful London club this season (sorry Arsenal fans, but there is no medal for finishing 2nd in the league).
Money well spent!!!!
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