A Aguero 178
One of the highlights of the year… City’s all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing Eric Brook’s 78-year record.
The Argentine equalled Brook’s tally of 177 (in 494 starts) with his goal against Burnley – and his fine goal against Napoli saw him edge ahead.
It took Sergio just 264 appearances to surpass Brook’s tally and it’s even more impressive considering 39 of Kun’s total appearances came from the bench.
B Beautiful football
Dominant performances, defensive solidarity, exquisitely-crafted moves and potent attacking firepower.
Some of City’s football has been sublime; a joy to behold.
Pep Guardiola’s iconic style is shining through.
C Competitions
City will be firing on all fronts, as both the men’s and women’s teams are still alive in all competitions…
Bring on the Premier League, Super League, Carabao Cup, Continental Tyres Cup, FA and FA Women’s Cup and the Champions League!
D Debutants
From Phil Foden to Kyle Walker, Oleks Zinchenko to Mel Lawley, Claire Emslie to Gabriel Jesus, Tom Dele-Bashiru to Ederson… there have been a host of City debutants this year.
The future is Blue!
E EDS and Academy
Further evidence of the above… City U18s, who clinched the U18 Premier League North last season, currently sit second in the table – a point behind Liverpool with a game in hand, despite the fact the squad is comprised of first year scholars (U17s) and schoolboys.
Managing Director of City Football Services Brian Marwood believes it is the age range just beyond that, between 18 and 22, that has been identified as crucial in development terms and seen as the vital last step before first team football.
That’s why you’ll find more than 30 Blues on loan and why the average age of Simon Davies’ Elite Development Squad (EDS) is, more often than not, 17.
F FA Women’s Cup
City’s women’s team made history once again, clinching a first FA Women’s Cup with a stunning 4-1 triumph over Birmingham at Wembley Stadium.
It had been the only competition the Blues were yet to succeed in, but goals from Lucy Bronze, Izzy Christiansen, Carli Lloyd and Jill Scott ensured Nick Cushing’s side were able to complete the set of domestic silverware – an astonishing treble.
G Goalfests
That’s entertainment! There have been goals galore across the Club – from City’s stupendous Champions League 5-3 victory over Monaco to the U18s’ FA Youth Cup 6-0 thrashing of Stoke…
The Potters’ first-team also suffered a 7-2 demolition, while our women’s team defeated Arsenal 5-2 as the Gunners conceded five for the first time since 2008!
Throw in a couple of 4-0, 5-0 and 5-1 wins and you have City’s prolific 2017!
In fact, Guardiola’s men have scored more than 100 Premier League goals in the calendar year.
No top-flight English side had managed that since Liverpool bagged 106 in 1982.
H Home form
The 4-0 victory over Bournemouth ensured the Blues completed the calendar year unbeaten at the Etihad Stadium.
In the 26 matches we played at home, City won 21 and drew five, scoring 71 and conceding 20.
I International glory
City’s young trio of Joel Latibeaudiere, Curtis Anderson and England Under 17s to lift the World Cup for the first time in history.
Foden bagged a brace in the sensational 5-2 final win over Spain and was voted Player of the Tournament, receiving the Golden Ball.
J Just in time
Another trait of a Guardiola side, City have adopted a real never-say-die attitude. Snatching victory from the jaws of stalemate or defeat has become a regular occurrence.
It may not be good for the old heart, but the Blues have been rescued on quite a few occasions by last-minute winners; often courtesy of Raheem Sterling.
Grit to accompany the flair! They say it’s what champions are made of…
K KDB 100
City’s 7-2 victory over Stoke will of course by fondly remembered and it was a particularly special day for Kevin De Bruyne, who notched his 100th appearance for the Club.
We’ve witnessed some magic moments in that time!
L League leaders
Both of City’s first team squads top their league tables at the end of the year. Guardiola’s side have an unprecedented 15-point lead, while Cushing’s side hold a two-point advantage above nearest rivals Chelsea, having maintained a 100% record in 2017/18 in all competitions.
M Merlin
The 2016/17 campaign proved a superb one for David Silva.
Thriving under his new manager’s leadership and enjoying a more advanced role, El Mago weaved plenty of magic and was voted the Etihad Player of the Season…
Part two to follow on Saturday…
