Our Under-23s retained the title we won for the first-time last season thanks to a fine 3-1 win in front of 21,000 fans at Leeds on Friday evening in our penultimate league match.
In the process, City have become only the second team in PL2 history to secure back-to-back titles.
It’s another magnificent achievement and one that caps a fine first season in charge for head coach Brian Barry-Murphy, his backroom staff and squad.
Appointed to the role last summer in succession to Enzo Maresca, the City youngsters have thrived under the former Rochdale manager’s inspired leadership.
Our brand of exciting, possession-based attacking football has garnered widespread praise and the EDS squad have gone from strength to strength as the season has progressed.
What’s more, several members of Barry-Murphy’s squad have also been afforded their first team debuts this season as well as furthering their football education training with Pep Guardiola’s squad.
To date we have plundered a remarkable 58 goals from our 25 games – while our back line has only conceded 32 goals, the lowest tally in the league.
Our title triumph has also proved a real collective effort with every member of Barry-Murphy’s squad making their own vital contribution to the cause with 24 players either scoring or providing an assist.
Reflecting on the achievement, Academy director Jason Wilcox and City manager Pep Guardiola both paid their own tributes to the squad’s magnificent success.
“To retain the Premier League 2 title is another tremendous achievement by our Elite Development Squad,” said Wilcox.
That was a point echoed by Guardiola, who says the consistency the EDS have shown has been exemplary.
“I am so delighted for everyone here at Manchester City,” said the City manager.
“You cannot believe how tough it is to win this title, so to do it two years in a row is an incredible achievement. It really shows how much hard work goes on at Manchester City’s Academy.”
City’s EDS youngsters are back in action on Friday when we play our final game of the PL2 season at home to Everton in a game that will be screened live on CITY+.
The squad will also be presented with the trophy and medals following the full-time whistle.
Everyone at Manchester City would like to congratulate Brian, his staff and the squad on their tremendous achievement.
