How Momentum Shifted From the Red Half to the Blue Half of Manchester
By Space Coast Daily // June 19, 2024
The Manchester Derby, a historic clash between Manchester City and Manchester United, has seen a remarkable power shift over the past two decades.
Once noisy neighbours, City now dominate the Premier League betting odds and while United snatched the FA Cup this season from their rivals at Wembley Stadium, City have dominated proceedings in recent years.
But how did the momentum shift in a rather short period of time? City’s recent title win was their fourth in a row and sixth in seven years, making them a powerhouse in the English game, while United have yet to lift the league title since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
In this article, we look at the pivotal moments that defined City’s run to becoming the better side in Manchester. While they might not have the history or fanbase of United, they stand in good stead to win the majority of trophies in the future, and we assess their blueprint for success in turning Manchester sky blue.
Takeover by Abu Dhabi Group (2008)
In 2008, Manchester City underwent a seismic transformation when the Abu Dhabi United Group acquired the club. Their substantial financial backing injected newfound ambition and resources. Suddenly, City was no longer the perennial underdog, but a force to be reckoned with. The takeover marked the beginning of a new era, signing Robinho for a record fee from Real Madrid. It was a statement signing that represented the start of City challenging Manchester United’s supremacy.
First Derby Win Post-Takeover (2009)
City’s victory over United in September 2009 was symbolic. It wasn’t just about three points; it was a statement. The blue half of Manchester had arrived. The gritty 2-1 win at Old Trafford sent shockwaves through English football. Suddenly, the derby wasn’t a mere local clash, but a battle for dominance.
Premier League Triumph (2012)
The 2011/12 season will forever be etched in City’s history. Sergio Agüero’s iconic last-minute goal against Queens Park Rangers secured the Premier League title. The drama, tension, and sheer disbelief encapsulated the shift in power. City had snatched the crown from United’s grasp on the final day of the season via goal difference, and the balance tilted irreversibly.
Comfortable Victories (2013-2014)
City’s subsequent derby wins weren’t mere victories; they were emphatic statements. Losing the league to United in 2013 clearly hurt the Etihad group, and they responded by spending big and appointing Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini to use his expertise in winning silverware.
Their attacking flair, led by players like David Silva and Yaya Touré, left United trailing to beat United 4-1 at home in September and then 3-0 at Old Trafford.
The blue side played with swagger, dismantling their rivals on route to a second league title in three years. The once-dominant United now struggled to keep pace.
Pep Guardiola’s Arrival (2016)
When Pep Guardiola took the reins at City, it was a seismic moment. His tactical brilliance and obsession with possession-based football transformed the club. Suddenly, City played like a symphony—fluid, intricate, and mesmerizing. Guardiola’s arrival signalled a commitment to sustained excellence, with the trophies he won at Barcelona and Bayern Munich making way for more in the Manchester cabinet.
Centurion Season (2017-18)
City’s 100-point campaign in 2017/18 was unprecedented. They didn’t just win; they dominated. Guardiola had a year of phasing in, and after finishing trophyless for the first time in his career, he made sure to make a statement of intent. Their relentless pursuit of perfection showcased their hunger, first with the League Cup, and then a record-breaking league title as they smashed the previous points tally. The blue half of Manchester had become a juggernaut, leaving United trailing in their wake.
The Treble (2022-23)
In a fairy-tale season, City achieved the unthinkable: the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League — the treble. Guardiola’s tactical genius, combined with stellar performances from Kevin De Bruyne, Ruben Dias, and Phil Foden, culminated in glory. The blue moon shone brighter than ever. Erling Haaland represented their first recognised striker since Agüero when he signed from Borussia Dortmund. The Norwegian won the Golden Boot in his maiden campaign as Pep Guardiola’s side matched United’s 1999 treble, completing their transformation.
