The two players have announced their departures at the end of the season but will forever be City legends following their roles in our remarkable period of success, with both of them winning 19 trophies during their time at the Etihad to date.
And to commemorate the huge impact of two incredible players, we asked world-renowned photographer Kevin Cummins to recreate an iconic image of famous City fans Oasis with the pair.
Cummins, who has followed City all around the world as a supporter, has taken pictures of the biggest rock stars in the world while his images of Manchester bands such as Joy Division, The Smiths and Oasis have helped to establish the city’s musical heritage.
It was at the height of Oasis’ global success that he took famous pictures of Gallagher brothers Noel and Liam around our old Maine Road home – the stadium where they played a famous homecoming concert.
The photos in the City shirt, complete with ‘brother’ sponsor, have become iconic and City asked Cummins to re-enact one of those famous images.
Close on and off the pitch, Stones and Bernardo threw themselves into the photo session and Cummins was delighted to take the picture of two brilliant City players.
“Over the last decade, what’s it been like watching Bernardo and Stones? It’s been a pleasure and a privilege,” he said.
“They’ve been two of the best players I’ve seen in a City shirt in their positions. Both also had iconic moments against Liverpool too!
“I loved taking their photo of course. It cements the photo in Manchester folklore - and furthers the link between City and my photography - and Oasis.
“Noel and Liam and Johnny and Bernardo are elite players in their own field.
“It felt natural for Bernardo to be in Liam’s place in the photo, and I knew I’d made the right decision when Bernardo asked expectantly: “which of us is going to be Liam?” There could only be one answer…”
Keep across the official Manchester City app and mancity.com over the coming days for more celebrations of Stones and Bernardo before their final farewell.
