Ahead of Sunday’s match versus Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League, we have done a Q&A with one of their supporters. Thank you to Kev for answering the questions! This match is live on Sky Sports Main Event, Premier League and Ultra HDR and the referee is Anthony Taylor.
How long have you supported Manchester City?
My first game at Maine Road (when I was finally allowed to go was October 78’ v West Brom 2-2) The first game I can remember watching was the 2-1 League Cup Final highlights v Newcastle in February 76’…so let’s say then i.e. 48 years ago.
What were and now are your hopes and expectations for the 2023/24 season?
After last season’s Treble, I was expecting a transitional year, but here we are again pretty much in the same position (possibly better than last points-wise) hoping to repeat it. April is a ridiculous month, so just taking one game at a time.
That said if we don’t win an unprecedented 4 in a row, then I hope Arsenal do it for Arteta. The thought of Klopp leaving on a high would be absolutely unbearable.
What are your views on your manager?
He’s the GOAT – Greatest of all Time. Nobody has influenced the game the way he has in this country at all levels and tiers of the game. Whenever Fergie & Pep met, his Utd side was absolutely skool’d…I hope he extends his contract again in 2025
Style of play and tactics – direct/passing/hybrid?
City still control games with 70% possession plus, because so many opponents just sit deep with 2 banks of 5. City are prone to a swift counterattack, as defensively we’ve been off it compared to 22/23. Injuries haven’t helped either, but that’s no excuse.
One(s) to watch now and in the future?
Foden has been superb all season, and on his day is simply unplayable, especially in a free role behind Haaland.
For the future, Doku has shown glimpses but needs to improve his end product. Nunes & Bobb have caught the eye but need another season or two yet. Two more exciting names to watch out for in the coming years are Echeverri & Savio
Random fact about your Club?
It’s been 13 years since Chelsea did the League & Cup DOUBLE. 21 years for Arsenal. 24 years for Utd. 36 years for Liverpool.
City have done 2 in the last 5 years
Which were your favourite and least favourite matches involving Manchester City?
Beating United at the first-ever Manchester FA Cup Final last May and witnessing Gundo score after just 12 seconds will now never be topped.
Least favourite? York away in 98’ … I stopped the car and considered throwing myself off the Humber Bridge for a split second, as I drove home after a 1-2 last-minute defeat.
At the start of the season, which sides did you think would finish in the top four and which did you think would finish in the bottom three?
City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle.
United (only kidding) Sheff Utd, Luton and Bournemouth.
What are your thoughts on Arsenal?
I don’t mind them, although the ATV guys got a bit giddy last season, especially Robbie before our game at The Etihad. They’ve had 2 huge slices of luck with wickedly deflected late goals in both the Community Shield & at The Emirates but overall have been the best side in the Prem so far this season. Have they got the ‘bottle’ to see it through this time I wonder?
If you could steal one Arsenal player for your team, who would it be and why?
Saka – He’s been in my Fantasy dream team all season, top quality and a good lad too.
What is your prediction for this match?
Hate predicting results because I always feel the worst and that the old ‘Typical City’ will strike and we’ll blow it like we used to in the good old bad old days.