Arguably, you have sat through multiple hours of intense back and forth answering the age old question: who are the best Man City players ever? This has been the case whether it’s a pint down the pub after an intense league game or with 45 minutes played by two dominant sides at halftime and still no score… With their inception of being the First Division title winners to the most recent premier league triumph, City’s story is one that houses some truly remarkable talents.
Manchester City have been visited by many legends over the years, from their sky blue days at Maine Road to this current squad’s reign of domination in English football. Players such as Colin Bell and Frank Swift are among those etched in the club’s history. More recently, the likes of David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne have spearheaded a new era of success bringing league cups as well as one premier league title. But how do we conclude who takes the utmost honors?
In this piece, I will look at these factors when revealing the best or top players for Manchester City. What is it the goals they scored, or how important those match-winning goals were OR last but by no means least their sheer talent? Perhaps it is the way they motivate teammates and represent an authentic club captain or how much blood, sweat and tears have been left on the field with running through injury. The Champions League and fa cup final are often the difference between city’s success or failure this season, many of these few stars. Some of them stand out for their performances in a single season, while others have contributed over many years to the success and history of dos Verdões.
There is an element of romance in every city player, who has a part to play for the ordinary little children growing up with debate becoming more and even so exciting over the years, best Manchester City player ever.
The Golden Era (1960s-1970s)
Colin Bell: King of the Kippax
If you speak to any Manchester City fan from the pre-Arab Sheik days, then one of the first names that will sound out when discussing who were our greatest players during that era is Colin Bell. Named “The King of the Kippax,” Bell will forever be revered by City fans. His many on-field skills made him a significant contributor to the team’s success in both decades.
Bell signed for Manchester City from Bury in 1966, and his arrival coincided with the start of a new era at the club. City now boasting a First Division title with Bell at the heart of their team, an achievement which revived City as a major player in English football. On the field, he was a standout player for his ability to score goals and prowess as a midfielder. The jersey retaliates on his influence at the club that even till now he is considered to be one of the greatest midfielders ever to have worn it.
Mike Summerbee: The Buzzer
Another fans favorite from Manchester City’s title-winning days was Mike Summerbee, perhaps better known as “The Buzzer”. His flamboyance and swagger on the pitch endeared him to City supporters. He played an important part as City won a number of top and trophies over the following years such as the 1969 FA Cup victory, 1970 League Cup success.
His partnership with Francis Lee and Colin Bell was a catalyst for City’s attacking threat. And this treble won the moniker of “Holy Trinity ” as Manchester City. If changes were made by width, Summerbee was a legend in his own right with his never-say-die attitude to seemingly take any opportunity he could find. It was more than just his skills; he also brought leadership and camaraderie to Manchester for many reasons.
Francis Lee: The Goal Machine
Goal machine Francis Lee was a handful in his days at Manchester City. He signed from Bolton Wanderers in 1967, and became a prolific goalscorer right away. His goal scoring ability was similar to that of a man-machine, and he was affectionately called by the same name.
Click and scroll through the gallery at the top of the page to see Lee’s best goals Draxler shines on big stage In pictures: Transfer deadline day Allardyce sacking dubbed ‘pathetic’ Liverpool could strengthen further following Van Dijk deal Remember, though, that while his goal-scoring was prolific it remains down in 6th place when ranking all-time Premier League marksman. The first of those was massively significant, with Bell top scoring in the First Division title win a season later and also contributing 10 goals on their way to ending an FA Cup barren spell by winning at Wembley VI. Through this period, Lee’s competitive spirit and determination were a huge contributing factor behind City success. A leader on and off the field, more than a goal scorer.
The Modern Era (2008-Present)
Sergio Agüero: Record-Breaker
And in the modern era one of the greats for Manchester City has to be Sergio Agüero. The story of City was an altogether different one when Agüero arrived in 2011. Agüero made an instant impact as a fan-favorite with his incredible goal-scoring prowess.
The 2012 Championship of Agueroestead at its most iconic moment was his last gasp goal against Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the season in injury time which won City their first Premier League title. You may never forget Agüero’s ‘that goal’ that still lives in the memory of all City fans. He is the club record goalscorer and his importance to City’s achievements has been unmistakable.
Captain, Leader Legend – Vincent Kompany
Another “Captain, Leader, Legend,” one who certainly bought the right to that title in Vincent Kompany. Kompany had joined City in 2008 and soon became a cornerstone of their defense. His intangibles and defense combined to make him a vital cog in the machine.
Kevin de Bruyne, David Silva and company wait to heap the praise on Kompany as well — if Bamba ever lets them have a say. He was an absolute captain, he made those around him better and led by example. His contributions to City’s numerous Premier League championships and infamous 2019 goal against Leicester City will never be forgotten. The legacy Kompany has left is not just in the performances he put on at the Etihad Stadium, but his role in helping shape a successful Manchester City culture.
David Silva: The Magician
David Silva- “The Magician” There is very little doubt in my mind that David Silva will go down as one of the greatest midfielders to ever play for Manchester City. The arrival of Silva in 2010 brought an extra level to City’s game. He was literally on another level in terms of vision, creativity and his ability to dictate play from midfield.
Silva was integral to the City success of the last 10 years As an example, his goals in big games like FA Cup finals and Champions League matches were key moments in City’s emergence as a top side. Silva was a fan favorite, with his elegance on the ball and ability to conjure up something from seemingly nothing. He left in 2020 after an incredible three and a half years but his impact at City will never be forgotten.
Kevin De Bruyne: The Maestro
The man pulling the strings, Kevin De Bruyne “The Maestro”, Is without a doubt one of if not the best played in this sport currently and is vital for Manchester City. He can control games and having such a great passer of the ball is an asset to any team.
De Bruyne, 29, has been a key part of the City setup ever since he joined the club in 2015. He has been sensational in the Premier League, Champions League and La Liga. His vision, creativity and an ability to perform at the biggest moments has made him irreplaceable in this side. Regarded as one of the best midfielders in world football, he remains a pivotal figure behind City’s sustained prosperity.
Manchester City have been fortunate enough to cross generations between a golden era in the 1960s and early ’70s into modern times, as with whether it is Colin Bell the legend, charismatic Mike Summerbee or the swashbuckling Francis Lee,the modern-day hero like Sergio Agüero, Vincent Kompany and David Silva all laid the foundation to enrich themselves along with success in Sky Blue Jersey.
Manchester City’s past and present success is a testament to the incredible array of talent that has been a part of this Juventus team. As City fans we are lucky to have seen all three of these icons play and fortunate enough to be part of the unbelievable journey that has taken place at our club. The never-ending discussion of who the best players are to play for Manchester City is, certainly, one way or another settled as legacies shining through generations will be their emblem.
The Current Generation
The Wonder of Scoring Goals Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland is the football sensation of 2021, and Manchester City fans are over the moon to have acquired his signature. It is hardly surprising why this young Norwegian striker has already been dubbed one of the best Manchester City players ever. We know he is alright in front of goal but just how good could the City forward become?
When he joined Manchester City, Haaland proved himself to be an adept goal-scorer. His pace, power, and accuracy make him a nightmare for defenders. At the same time, fans beg for City’s next piece of business, and more often than not, Haaland bangs in those goals. He has been a huge part of City’s success over the last couple of years.
More than just goals from Haaland, He is also admired for his hard work and never-give-up attitude on the field. He’s an energetic, lively character who brings huge enthusiasm to the field that seems to rub off on his teammates and excites City fans. Haaland will undoubtedly become a Manchester City legend as he develops and matures.
Phil Foden
Another worldwide firecracker from Manchester City’s supposed generation is Phil Foden, also lovingly referred to as the Stockport Iniesta. This local boy has been with the club since childhood and worked his way up to first-team action. Foden encapsulates the remit of a City player perfectly, with talent, ingenuity, and love for his club.
He has worked hard to develop into one of Manchester City’s top performers, it hasn’t been an easy journey for Foden. As a player who can dictate the tempo of games from midfield, contribute to City’s attacking game, and score goals himself, Gundogan is so important. His contribution in the key games, including Champions League or FA Cup final etc. has been decisive and helped to make a difference for his team at times.
The difference with Foden is the third word of that sentence. Always, in any position, be it as a winger, an attacking midfielder or even upfront. It is his association with the fans and a love for City that in many ways makes him one of those forever figures at Manchester City. Foden is only going to get better, the boy wonders at the Etihad Stadium.
Fan Favorites and Cult Heroes
Feed the Goat Legend, Shaun Goater
They smile when they hear Shaun Goater, or “The Goat” as he is known at City. His spells at Manchester City saw him net a number of vital and memorable goals that ensured he was forever held in the hearts of their supporters. His ability to find the back of the net, particularly in crucial games saw Goater become a fans favorite at City.
Goater started his journey at Manchester City in the late 1990s, when they were trying to reach back into lofty heights of English football. He netted 20 goals as City were promoted from the Second Division to the Premier League. His finest hour arrived against Manchester United, when his brace of strikes helped City to come out on top in the derby.
It was because Goater not only scored goals, but he celebrated them in the stands where those fans stood. The chant of “Feed the Goat and he will score” became synonymous with his time at the club. His commitment and love for the game made Goater a cult hero, while fans still adore his legacy at City.
Paul Dickov: The Wembley Hero
The 1999 Second Division Play-Off Final hero Paul Dickov. As cherished among City fans as he was before that moment, widely considered the defining one in Manchester City’s modern day evolution into footballing powerhouses – it remains imprinted upon their souls. That last-minute Dickov goal got City into extra time And guided them to promotion.
But Dickov won over the fans with his never-say-die attitude during a hard-working spell at City. He may not have been the most skillful player but his determination and work rate truly made him a crowd favorite. His habit of getting key goals, most memorably with late or decisive strikes also ensured he went down in City folklore.
His name is etched in City folklore forever, particularly for that dramatic Wembley goal. It was a sign of things to come under Venables and will always stay with us. The legacy of a hero, the spirit of fight that all keep seeing and the new generation always learns to love Man City alliances.
Georgi Kinkladze: Genius from Georgia
The last player who deserves a mention, as he was such an entertainer with his fancy footwork and skill, of course is Georgi Kinkladze at Manchester City. From a notoriously erratic time in the 90s at Elland Road, this was one of the Georgian great’s modestly shining lights. His dazzling runs and wonder goals made him a cult hero with City fans.
However, Kinkladze’s arrival at Manchester City in 1995 was anything but quiet. A delight to watch as his stopping-and-going skills combined with his vision on the pitch. Few can make the same claim during his time given City’s struggles, but Kinkladze shone brilliantly while at Maine Road. A spectacular goal against Southampton – when he weaved past the entire defense, before eventually slotting in to find the net- where even today it remains as one of Manchester City’s all-time best goals scored by a striker.
In the end, it was flair that brought Kinkladze: pure unpredictability. On the pitch he was a magician that made every supporter feel special. Despite spending only a few years in Manchester, Kinkladze became an ever-lasting cult hero at City and is well remembered for the entertainment he provided to supporters.
The Debate
If you’re a Manchester City fan, chances are that at some stage in your lifetime, whether with friends down the pub or just kicking back on forums and websites discussing the beat players to have donned our Blue shirt. At City, the home of some all-time greats.Last season was something else. Somehow. Have those highs been hit before? Since change – transformational happenings, while I’ve watched guard at Maine Road/City, have happened in the standardization process. Pure ingenuity style. Just Pass and move. Ways Caressing The beautiful game. Select the best one of them, and you know what? That’s a tough one.
When you discuss the best Manchester City players, names such as Colin Bell, Sergio Agüero and Kevin De Bruyne are no doubt thrown around. They have all brought something different to the club. During bad times, Bell – an allegory of great endurance and talent blazing through the world in which he lives. Aguero’s unique penchant for big goals turned City from also-rans into Premier League game-changers. And De Bruyne? His vision and play-making ability has given a new definition to midfielders in the English game.
Comparison of Time and Styles
It is like apples and oranges to compare players of different eras. Now people are playing the game, and hence also have different play styles. In the days of Colin Bell and Mike summerbee football was predominantly more physical rather than Tactical. The game was simpler in those days – exactly what type of league these players would be best suited for.
However, in the modern game an increased intelligence of players like David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne have earned new found freedom to include a more tactical type of play. The modern game has changed with advanced methods of training, sports science and tactical nuances. The fact that Agüero has consistently managed to find space and score goals while playing in the most competitive league of them all is a testament to his ability.
But the devotion and love in heart by Manchester City players, is a nice consistent factor through ages. Whether competing at the top or in all-action title races further down with their Premier League club, they have worn that sky blue jersey of Manchester City as if born to it.
How His Legacy Changed the Course of The Club
The footprint made by every great player on the history of any club is always felt. The contribution of Colin Bell in the 1960s and ’70s established Manchester City as a major domestic force. Crucial league wins and cup final victory-interspersed with performances like the one in Seville-all but guaranteed silverware for City during that era But along with the goals or assists Bell left behind in his career, he also leaves a legacy that is of what it means to be captain and inspire your teammates.
Of course, the injections of cash from investor group Abu Dhabi United Group over its controversial takeover have shaped a subsequent era where waves and waves of talent line up at Etihad Stadium. The likes of Sergio Agüero, Vincent Kompany and more played crucial roles in their multiple Premier League wins, FA Cup triumphs and even a push to the Champions League final. That last-minute goal from Agüero against Queens Park Rangers delivered the Premier League title is a moment that any City supporter will never forget.
Manchester City midfielders David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne have changed the way of playing their category. Silva’s amazing control of a game and De Bruyne’s incision with vital assists and goals have been central to City’s dominance. Some of these players have also helped City set record achievements, with the club dominating English football.
So, who gets your vote? The King of the Kippax, Colin Bell or our modern-day maestro currently smashing records left right and center at will into Sir Bobby Charlton bellend? Or maybe you side with Sergio Agüero, the scorer of one of the finest moments in Premier League history. Or perhaps you’re just a sucker for the tricks and flicks of David Silva.
All the best guys of Manchester City have woven their own part in rich tapestry concerning this football club. A few shone during the difficult early years, others have been instrumental in City’s dominance of the current era. Who is the best player of all time will be dictated by your formative exposure to football and which moments stimulated or pained you at that impressionable age as a supporter.
Conclusion
However, Manchester City’s development from the football league to a mega powerhouse in today’s modern sports style is nothing short of spectacular. It was driven by players exceptional beyond the limit, who have all inscribed their names into the history of The Reds.
Every player, from the iconic Colin Bell that epitomized Manchester City in the 1960s & ’70s era through to Sergio Agüero, Vincent Kompany and modern-day heroes David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne have added their part of success for the club. They have brought moments of joy, pride and unforgettable memories to City fans.
The argument will rage on over who the greatest Manchester City player of all time was, for at least another generation. Every generation has its legends, and every fan is their hero. Whether it be the goals of heroics of Agüero, leadership of Kompany, sheer brilliance or magic from Silva and De Bruyne, these are players who have all played an important part in Manchester City becoming one if not the most dangerous team in English football.
While still shouting out to these legends of the game we also must champion for what lies ahead. The current squad, featuring a legacy of excellence mixed with experienced stars and emerging talent, promises to be no different. But equally, this is not the end of City as a success story, with so many more chapters to come.
First and foremost, Manchester City’s legends will leave behind a legacy far greater than the trophies, titles, etc. It is the zeal, dedication, and love for the game that these players have shown that matters. It is the bond that they manufactured with fans and tied it to their pride in Watford. It truly has been a remarkable journey and we have all had the privilege as City fans to witness these super-human efforts before our very eyes.
From Manchester City’s rich and varied history to the best players of the past… Current stars shone brightly on our list. As you recall the greats of days gone by or look over those continuing to make a mark in this age, the City’s legends, past and present, will continue to live long in the memory for Blues all around.
