MAN CITY 2 – 0 West Ham – MY THOUGHTS
12 May
We will never tire of days like this.
As Vincent Kompany received the Premier League trophy and lifted it high above his head to initiate the next stage of prolonged celebrations, it started to sink in. The dream that one day we would be in such a position and the hope that we may be fortunate to see our beloved club achieve such levels of success had turned into reality. Extended reality. This wasn’t just a one-off. This was merely the second remarkable achievement in three years and there will be plenty more to come.
We are privileged to be watching such a talented, hungry and entertaining side, casting aside initial doubts to reclaim the title. Sunday didn’t have the drama and sheer disbelief of the events of two years ago (and, let’s be honest, nothing ever will) but in a sense, that is a sign of the new, revamped, classy City. It was professional. It was understated. It was successful. And that has been the story of the season.
There have been moments of concern at various stages throughout the campaign, most notably just a few weeks ago when, following our self-inflicted collapse at Liverpool, Sunderland outplayed us on our home ground to strike what felt like an fatally damaging blow to our title aspirations. And yet there have been immeasurable highs that have filled us with warmth and jubilation and ecstasy and, finally, gloriously, contented happiness. This was our year. Our trophy. Our time.
For that, much credit should be directed towards Manuel Pellegrini, a manager who has played such a key role in uniting a dressing room that previously was united only in its barely-concealed disdain for Roberto Mancini. The Italian’s provocation and confrontation have disappeared, replaced by the Chilean’s harmonious, sympathetic nature. He has granted freedom to our creative stars, worked hard to turn the defence into a solid unit on which foundations are built and has exuded a charm throughout.
He may not have a particularly close bond with the supporters, as enjoyed by the previous manager, but we should not mistake his reserved grace for aloofness. He does, it should be added, have a sterner side and that has been displayed to the players on occasions this season after disappointing results, but there is an overwhelming sense of togetherness that now emanates from all areas of the club.
Indeed, that it is such a tricky challenge to select a player of the year suggests what a powerful unit we have. This is not a title charge that has been carried by one individual, rather a collective effort that has thrilled the fans. Yaya Touré, David Silva, Samir Nasri, Fernandinho and Pablo Zabaleta would all be worthy winners. If injuries hadn’t decimated his season, then perhaps Sergio Aguero could have been added to that list. For half a season, Alvaro Negredo was sublime. For the other half of the season, Edin Dzeko assumed responsibility. Martin Demichelis turned himself from a weak link into one of the major strengths. Aleks Kolarov’s resurgence from defensive liability to potent attacking weapon has been remarkable. It’s easy, too, to overlook Joe Hart’s comeback, owing as much to his mental fortitude as any amount of natural ability. Vincent Kompany has led the side with authority. For those who are only too eager to point out that this is a squad of mercenaries, the evidence to support their claims is severely lacking. What we have witnessed this season is a hungry group, determined, at times ruthless and above all, totally professional.
And their efforts have been thoroughly rewarded.
So, thanks to all concerned with the club. Thanks to the players, the staff and the manager for entertaining us to such a joyful extent this season, thanks for the dignified and classy way in which you have gone about your business and let’s hope that we’re thanking you again this time next year.
Any thoughts on the match.
I thought it was a professional, assured, mature performance. Similar to the previous match against Aston Villa – but a little more defensive. So much so that West Ham had zero shots on target and only two or three off target.
Great.
Loved the celebrations.
Not too impressed with the BBC news coverage – Andy Cole’s retirement from internationals seemed more important. Surprised they didn’t major on their draw to Saints!
I agree with what youre saying about the coverage, today if you watched Sky sorts news or listened to Talksport you wouldn’t believe we had only won the league a day earlier
Congratulation to my wonderful club
That’s Ashley Trevor, not a bad player on a free???, motd was OK no more no less, I’m not waiting on them or anyone else to massage my highs – its not about any of them “experts” have you noticed that as soon as lineker praised demicheles everybody jumped on the bandwagon, lawrenson – Hansen etc’ that’s the media for you’ Mr pelligrini has given a masterclass all season with how you deal with the media (except for barca) which seems quiet hilarious now’ like Isaac newton on magic mushrooms ha’ what a trip, fantastic achievement from all concerned – that’s the way you conduct yourself on & off the pitch’ a class act all the way – what sort of bonus will the player’s earn??, jees I’d say that would be good to know’ congrats boys, its been a massive pleasure watching you strutt your stuff with wonderful entertainment-no mercy.
Good season. Seems better than it is because at the past month we seemed to have lost the league. I hope we don’t get complacent like the 2012-2013 season. But this is not a day for criticism and concerns but for celebrations.
Congratulations to the players the one and only MANUEL PELEGRINI, the whole staff and of course to the Seikh Mansour who ensured that we would live these moments. Thank you Mansour!