Welcome!
March already and we’re getting towards the business end of the season, as they say.
It’s remarkable how fast this season is going, but at least another month passing by means a new City Magazine!
We’ve an eclectic mixture of new and old in our new edition, with our main interview focused on our German goalkeeper Stefan Ortega Moreno.
Stefan talks about life in Manchester, his battle for the No.1 spot and how he first became a goalkeeper.
We also have Liam Gallagher’s long-awaited Best City XI, with one or two surprises from the Burnage rock star – as well as a competition to win the former Oasis star’s new album.
Andy Morrison picks over the bones of the March fixtures and predicts the score of each match we have – and our former skipper has really gone for it this time!
Leila Ouahabi talks about her new contract, while we shine the spotlight on EDS star Max Alleyne and U18 youngster. Rhys Thomas.
This month's Technical Area focuses on Club photographer L:exy Isley, with some fascinating tips for would-be snappers!
We’ve a couple of excellent galleries for you, with Nico O’Reilly’s rehab in focus and members of our superb Manchester City Women’s team have recently been out in Abu Dhabi, with our cameras never far away, of course.
Elsewhere we have a retro Asa Hartford Q&A, a Joe Hayes So Solid Blue and our Random Match Generator has thrown up a truly dismal defeat to Wimbledon.
Regular columnists Marc Riley and Kevin Cummins – who focuses on ‘G is for’ Rob Gretton, once manager of the mighty New Order – in his latest A to Z feature.
All the above, plus the lowdown on a classic MANC cover with Mario Balotelli, FPL, and plenty more.
Liam Gallagher, Rob Gretton, Asa Hartford, and a miserable defeat to Wimbledon – which other official club magazine gives you such a heady cocktail of City-related stuff?
And all for free. Enjoy!
We catch up with German goalkeeper Stefan Ortega Moreno to discover his journey to Manchester, his inspirations, and his admiration for Bert Trautmann...
Stefan Ortega Moreno is now in his second season with City and he is both fortunate and unfortunate to have one of the best goalkeepers in the world ahead of him.
Fortunate because he is training with Ederson every day and competing with an extraordinarily talented keeper, and unfortunate because Ortega Moreno would almost certainly be a regular first choice at most other clubs.
Whenever he does play in goal for City, it’s clear to see why he is so highly rated, never letting the team down and with a string of top class performances behind hi with both his hands and his feet.
But at 31, he still has many years ahead of him and is steadily clocking up appearances as he goes along.
The likeable German joined the Blues in 2023 from Armenia Benfield – a team he made almost 200 starts for and helped get to = and stay - in the Bundesliga.
He enjoys life in Manchester and feels very much at home at City, but his origins of being a goalkeeper were initially born out of necessity.
“I grew up in a small village in central Germany and when I was young, me and my friends would play five v five all day and the last man nearest the goal always had to be the goalkeeper – so that was how I first started playing in nets… occasionally! That’s how it started.
“My dad was a goalkeeper for a non-league side and every Saturday I would go and watch him play and stand behind the goal and this was where maybe the first seeds were planted as I got a little insight as to what being a keeper was all about.
“By the time I was 10 or 11, I felt I had some of the qualities needed to save goals, I liked it and so I decided to be a goalkeeper - that’s what I wanted to be.”
But there was one aspect of being a keeper Stefan didn’t have – height – at least not the six-feet four (and more in some cases) giants most top teams were employing as custodians back in the early 2000s.
He says: “My favourite team was Real Madrid, and my favourite player was Iker Casillas because he was a rare exception to the rule who proved that you didn’t have to be a tall, physical keeper - he was maybe 1.85metres high and because I’m not so tall as well – and certainly wasn’t when I was starting out - it made me realise that you could still make it if you were a similar height.
“He showed the world that you can be a great keeper by using other attributes at a time when most keepers were very tall and physical and could kick it from one end of the pitch to the other – and that was the perception of being a keeper was all about back then.
“With Casillas, he was just as good at collecting crosses as anyone in the world, but with him, it was all about timing and if you can time your jump, correctly, that is all you need.
“Take Nathan Ake, he is not our tallest defender, but he is one of our best in an aerial duel and so strong, and all because he has perfect timing.
“If you are not that tall, you have to be strong other ways. My strengths are being flexible, strong in the one v one situations, and I keep my body shape good and also have good timing – very tall keepers can’t get down as well as somebody of my size because they have trouble doing it – ultimately, it all depends on what the manager wants.
“Oliver Khan was another goalkeeper I admired because he might not have been the very best in the world technically, but he had this mentality and attitude and created an aura, so he was another inspiration for me, but Iker showed you can be a smaller goalkeeper and still reach the top.”
So, when did Manchester City first come on to his radar?
Like many kids of his era, he learned a lot about clubs and players by playing FIFA! And having a love of the colour blue was also a bonus…
“Yeah, I used to play a lot of FIFA with my friends and because blue is my favourite colour, I would find teams to play as from around the world who played in blue, and City were often one of them.
“I probably started really taking notice of City around 2010 after the World Cup when Sky Germany started showing Premier League games. I knew that the club had had a number of German players over the years and, of course, everybody in Germany knows the story of Bert Trautmann – particularly German goalkeepers who know their history – it’s a nice story. People should know about him and what he achieved.”
And you can’t talk about Trautmann and not the 1956 FA Cup final.
In fact, Stefan is surprised to discover he is the first German keeper for City since Trautmann to win the FA Cup, with last year’s 2-1 win over Manchester United still fresh in the memory.
“Since I arrived, I knew how big the FA Cup was for English people,” he said.
“That the ties are most played on Saturday shows how important it is because in Germany, our main domestic cup competition is played in midweek because they won’t change the Bundesliga schedule.
“My first game at Wembley was the Sheffield United semi-final, but the final itself was something really special. For us to score after 12 or 13 second was incredible. I just hit the ball up field and I could see it coming down near Ilkay, so when it went to him I was pretty sure he would hit the target, but maybe not the way he volleyed it - to see it go in was fantastic.
“The energy we had that day was incredible. You could feel it among our fans, in the changing room, on the bench and on the pitch – everyone was connected, and it was an amazing feeling. Even before the game, you could feel it – we hadn’t spoken about it much beforehand, but everybody was aware that we could possibly create history if we won that game.”
Though no goalkeeper who is competing with an established No.1 is absolutely happy to have to wait for their opportunities, Stefan knows that is the way things are at present.
Who wouldn’t want to play more matches? But his relationship with the Brazilian star couldn’t be better and the pair are each other’s biggest supporter.
“Eddy is a top keeper, and I would say were on the same level – everyone has an area they are better in – but of course it’s not easy to not play each week.
“We can learn from each other and with our goalkeeping department, we are working together and always pulling in the same direction. I don’t want to miss any games, but if I get frustrated from time to time, I need to get frustrated to Xabi or Pep – not Eddy because he’s doing the same as me – going to training and showing his best version. I can’t be angry at him and when I play, he supports me, too, so we have a close relationship. As I say, he is a top keeper.
“I really like it here. The quality of life here is so good and me and my family are very happy here. There are more rainy days here than in Germany but it’s a good life here in Manchester. There is such a family-orientated atmosphere at the Club and there are no egos – I came here from a small team in 2. Bundesliga and when I arrived everyone was so friendly and it was like, ‘Hi Stefan, how are you?’ You can see the togetherness on the pitch as well – everyone is happy for each other and that’s how we operate, and it is a big part of our success.
“People in England are so relaxed and friendly – wherever you go they just try to help you and it’s very easy living here and we are very happy. It’s a good life, here.”
And of his first season’s medal haul, he admits he hasn’t found a special place to store them – yet! A Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Super Cup and Club World Cup winner’s medals – the five biggest club honours possible and all inside one unforgettable year.
“The medals are still here in England, and I need to find a good solution for my home in Germany, but when family and friends come to visit, I show them the medals I’ve won while with City or the jerseys I played in with a little story about each,” he smiled.
“It’s good speaking about our triumphs because you realise more and more how special it is. I remember Gundo saying after the Champions League final that it had been a very good time to join City! I couldn’t agree more.”
Interview: David Clayton
More thoughts and scorelines from our former skipper Andy Morrison…
City v Man United
Premier League
Sunday, 3 March, 15:30 KO
Mozzer's verdict: In my heart of hearts, I believe we will really go to town in this game if things are still as they are going into March. But derby days can be weird, so I'll rein myself in a little and say we’ll just win by a couple of goals.
Mozzer's prediction: City 2-0 United
Champions League
Weds, 6 March, 20:00
City v FC Copenhagen
Mozzer’s verdict: We go into this with a comfortable lead and I expect us to repeat the scoreline from the first leg at the Etihad. Copenhagen are a decent side and they know they will have to have a go, or what’s the point? If they do attack, I expect us to pick them off but either way, I can only see a City win on the night
Mozzer’s prediction: City 3-1 FC Copenhagen
Premier League
Sun 10 March 15:45
Liverpool v City
Mozzer’s verdict: A huge game in what is a huge month for us. Liverpool have established themselves at the top and on their own patch and at their best, they’re a match for anyone. But this group of City players know how to get the job done and I’m feeling that on this occasion, we’ll go to Anfield and win – and what a massive result that would be!
Mozzer prediction: Liverpool 0-2 City
FA Cup/6th Round
Sat 16 March 17:30
City v Newcastle
Mozzer’s verdict: Newcastle United – again! Our fourth clash with the Magpies this season so it’s a case of familiar foes. So far, we’ve won two and lost once, but even though they are desperate to win a cup competition, I think this is the last draw they would have wanted. It will be open and entertaining – but I’m going for a City win and another date at Wembley.
Mozzer’s prediction: City 3-1 Newcastle
Premier League
Sun 31 March 16:30
City v Arsenal
Mozzer’s verdict: Another huge game. If we have beaten Liverpool, the title race will be even tighter and Arsenal will have probably closed the gap as a result. It could be that whoever wins this game will go top with eight or nine games to play. Our games in March will have such a massive effect on the outcome of the title race and I see this as being another must-win match. I expect Arsenal to be brave and go for broke and so long as we keep their set-pieces down to bare minimum, I think we’ll tale all three points – but I’m expecting goals for both sides.
Mozzer’s prediction: City 3-2 Arsenal
Premier League
Weds 3 April 20:00
City v Aston Vila
Mozzer’s verdict: Were Villa that good in our first meeting or did we have a bad day at the office? Pep has cited them as being much better on the night and has mentioned it regularly throughout the season, which makes me think he and his players have been waiting for this game to redress the balance. I think we’ll look to give them a dose of their own medicine and expect us to dominate for long periods and win comfortably.
Mozzer’s prediction: City 4-1 Aston Vila
How did Mozzer get on last month?
Andy got six results out of seven correct and got the 3-1 win over Brentford correct. We'll tally up his total at the end of the season.
We’ve waited for Liam’s best City XI for several years – and here it finally is – with one or two surprise selections.
The former Oasis front man has gone for a back five with Kolarov as one of the central three, Rodrigo underpinning a midfield that includes KDB and Bernardo and the dream front pairing of Aguero and Haaland.
Here’s some of Liam’s thoughts...
"Vincent Kompany – captain, leader… Rodrigo - when he plays we are untouchable, when he's missing so are we!. Erling Haaland – the Viking! Sergio Aguero.. who else?.Bernardo Silva - criminally underrated in England in my opinion. On the bench, Yaya Toure - the slayer of many a United side! Paul Lake - injury cruelly cut his career short… .Georgi Kinkladze - when we were rubbish - he was shining light."
COMPETITION!
The news that Manchester icons Liam Gallagher and John Squire were collaborating on a new project ignited a wave of anticipation – uniting the personality and attitude of the Oasis frontman’s vocals with the remarkable guitar talents of The Stone Roses’ creative force would surely be something special. And their debut track, ‘Just Another Rainbow’, lived up to the hype as it hit #16 on the UK singles chart while also shooting direct to #1 on the sales, downloads, vinyl and physical singles charts – in the process achieving Liam’s highest singles chart entry in fifteen years. Their more recent single ‘Mars To Liverpool’ has continued on the same rapid rise to the top! The album is now available HERE. Physical formats include standard CD and vinyl, a Deluxe split-colour vinyl, a white vinyl stocked by HMV and select indie stores, and an Amazon exclusive orange EcoRecord vinyl.
City Mag has 5 x standard vinyl versions available to be won. To enter, simply answer the following question and send your answer to [email protected] via email. Winners will be drawn at random on 2 April 2004.
Which track below features on the new album?
A. Raise Your Mind
B. Raise Your Hands
C. Raise Your Soul
Good luck!
This features sees us pay homage to players who flew under the radar of the football world outside of loyal City fans. The latest edition focuses on Joe Hayes, who scored goals at an incredible rate.
Goalscorers are often the stars of a team, receiving endless outside adulation. Although Joe Hayes knew exactly where the goal was, his was a name adored at Maine Road but a series of unfortunate events throughout his career meant he was rarely discussed beyond south Manchester.
The Bolton-born inside forward scored three minutes into an FA Cup final that saw City lift the trophy for a third time but was overshadowed by Bert Trautmann’s heroics in goal that day.
He remains the Club’s joint-fifth highest scorer of all-time, featuring alongside many of the most illustrious names in our history.
Only Sergio Aguero, Eric Brook, Tommy Johnson and Colin Bell have netted for City more times than Hayes, while he’s level with Billy Meredith on 152 and four ahead of Francis Lee on 148.
Hayes particularly enjoyed scoring against Manchester United – ten goals in seventeen appearances making him one of our standout performers in that match’s history.
All of this from an inside forward position that, in modern terms, would be a player expected to create as much as they were to score.
A man of average height and slim build, Hayes was nippy and skilful.
However, he was never able to add to his trophy haul after the 1956 FA Cup and never earned England recognition.
Despite that, he was always well appreciated by the Maine Road faithful.
Born in January 1936 in Bolton, he worked in a local cotton mill before receiving an invitation to trial at City in August 1953.
He reputedly arrived carrying his boots in a brown paper parcel, scored four goals and asked for his bus fare home. Within days, he had been signed by the Blues and he made his debut two months later against Tottenham aged just 17.
By the end of the season he had made eleven appearances and shown great promise, but he struggled to retain his place at the start of the 1954-55 season.
However, the teenage Hayes did manage to play in every round of the FA Cup, scoring against Derby and Manchester United, so it was no surprise when he was selected for the 1955 final which City lost to Newcastle United.
He ended the season with 15 goals from 26 games, an excellent return for a youngster in and out of the side.
City reached the final again the next season and Hayes scored the opening goal as we beat Birmingham 3-1 before Trautmann’s famous incident that saw him complete the game with a broken neck.
That season also saw him end as City’s leading league goalscorer with 23 goals in 42 appearances.
His scoring form continued in the 1957/58 season when he netted 25 times in 40 top division matches for a City side that finished fifth in the league.
This also saw him earn his highest level of international recognition, playing for England’s Under-23 side.
Hayes maintained his goalscoring form and his reputation as an inside forward to be feared during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
What worked against Hayes was the lack of form of the team-mates around him.
During the 1961/62 season he hit 16 goals in 39 matches, maintaining his fine ratio.
However, his place became less secure when a knee injury, occurring in September 1963 against Bury, had a noticeable effect on his abilities.
First team opportunities became limited with only four appearances in two years and Hayes was transferred to Barnsley in the summer of 1965, later going on to play for Wigan Athletic.
When he left Maine Road, he had been part of 142 wins in his 364 City appearances – a total appearances figure that remains the 23rd most in our history.
Although he had the combined misfortune of playing in a City side transitioning between eras and an injury that stifled him during his peak seasons, Hayes still left an incredible legacy at City.
His 152 goals has been surpassed by only two players since; Sergio Aguero and Colin Bell – perhaps the two greatest players to wear sky blue.
Hayes remains a key player in the rich tapestry of our Club’s history.
Capturing City’s history in pictures is no easy feat. But for Club Photographer Lexy Ilsley, she’s been pitchside at almost all of the first-team's games throughout our Treble-winning campaign.
She’s seen the highs and the lows of what it takes to become not just the champions of Europe, but crowned the best team in the world following City’s success at the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
City Magazine caught up with Lexy to divulge what last season was like behind a camera lens and what life is like capturing some of the best players in the world in City’s world-renowned photography team.
CITY MAG: Lexy, thank you for taking the time to chat to us amongst a busy time of fixtures. We always like to start this off by asking how you joined City and what’s life been like since that moment.
LEXY: I joined the Club at the start of February 2022. People were quietly mentioning the Treble but being new it wasn’t something I was thinking about. Obviously looking back now it was a crazy year to join the photography team and to watch the team win the Treble was just unbelievable. When I initially joined I would never have thought that four months later I’d be photographing City at the Champions League final but yeah, it’s been a special year.
On top of that I am extremely grateful to be in the team I’m in. Tom Barton, Tom Flathers Isaac Parkin and Dec Lloyd are all great colleagues and we all work so hard to capture as much as we can and we support each other a lot. For example the Champions League final - they’re only going to lift it once so in that moment you have to absolutely nail it - but having the rest of the photography team behind me with support, I know we will smash that with more exciting occasions to come.
CITY MAG: How did you get to this moment of joining City? Have you always had an eye for photography?
LEXY: Lots and lots of practice, really. I’ve been shooting a lot of games for quite a while. I started at non-league photographing as many games as I could during my A-Levels and I just developed that way. I went to my local team York City and I just went for free and you never really forget your first game and it was then that I knew photography was what I wanted to do.
CITY MAG: You joined in City’s most prolific season so no doubt it’s hard for you to pick just one photo but do you have a favourite that you’re most proud from the 2022/23 season and do you also have a favourite game you’ve photographed?
LEXY: Yeah it’s almost impossible to pick both! But I think because I really enjoy imagery that’s emotive I think the Bernardo Silva knee slide picture from the Champions League semi-final second leg at the Etihad. But close behind the Jack Grealish picture on the bus.
And then my favourite game, it’s always been a dream of mine to shoot at Wembley so I think the first time shooting there was a really proud moment for me. But I think favourite has to be that same Real Madrid game, at the Etihad. Just the emotion of it all, the crowd was amazing, the atmosphere was phenomenal, the fact that we won, and the minute we knew we were going to the final.
But on the other side to that, my favourite away game has to be Real Madrid in the first leg. It was so loud! The Bernabeu is huge and the crowd were deafening when we went 1-0 down. There was so much pressure because it was such a big game and we needed to do well so we could come back to the Etihad on a positive note. City have been so close to winning the Champions League so many times and it felt like the biggest opportunity to finally do it.
CITY MAG: Speaking of that infamous Jack Grealish picture, which was selected in The Guardian’s ‘photographs that defined 2023’, how did that moment come about and what does that picture say to you?
LEXY: So I was on Pep’s Management bus, photographing him. I also love to take pictures of the backroom staff because they’re all so important. And I just thought ‘I’ll have a look at the other bus to see if I can snap anything of the players’ and nothing was really working. And then Jack came to the front and we just caught each other’s eye and he kind of just did the pose and I got it. It was just a moment of us both clicking that we were going to get a really nice picture and it worked! He thanked me a few days later. It was such an amazing day and I think it was just a moment of mine and Jack’s working relationship that we have of both trusting each other and he did that pose and the rest is history.
A lot of people think that picture is just about Jack but it’s so much more than that. Firstly you’ve got John Stones and Bernardo Silva having such an amazing time, you’ve got Conor from the social team and so many important people on the bus that helped make the Treble happen. Also the crowd, the fans are so important and City fans are amazing. There must have been thousands lining the street and what I love it you can pick fans out, you know exactly who they are. There was a guy who climbed the top of the theatre with a flare and there is just so much going on in the picture. And the fact that people have that tattooed on them now too is mind blowing!
CITY MAG: Being so close to all the players, do you have a special moment with any, past or present, that stand out to you?
LEXY: In the dressing room after the Champions League final win while everyone was celebrating and having such an amazing time, Ilkay Gundogan just came up to me and gave me a hug and just said ‘congratulations’ and I think that was really special because the fact that everyone was having a great time and the fact that he came over to me and said that, I just thought it was really special. And especially from him as the captain and the fact that he included me in the celebrations, I’ll always remember that.
CITY MAG: Have any of the City players tried their hand at photography?
LEXY: When we went to Saudi Arabia for the FIFA Club World Cup I gave some of the players a few lessons. John Stones is very keen and Ederson has a good eye too. In the final he took some good pictures, some out of focus so there is room for improvement but I see potential in him! I love how interested they are in what we do and they always ask us about it which is nice. It It was also a moment where I just got to appreciate how lucky I am to work for the club I support. I’m so grateful to the Club, staff and players for giving me the most amazing opportunities, I’ve loved every second of it.
CITY MAG: Finally, do you have any advice for young photographers looking to get into the industry?
LEXY: Enjoy it as much as you can. Take as much advice off as many people as you can and don’t compare your journey to others. When I was younger a lot of my mates were doing the Youth Olympics Games and Premier League matches while I was still on National League North. I remember thinking ‘why am I not at their level’ but it works out eventually. You’re not going to improve without learning and practising. Just keeping enjoying it no matter what level you’re shooting at whether it’s grassroots or Premier League.
Interview: Holly Percival
City Under-18s defender Rhys Thomas, in his own words, has had a less than favourable start to his debut season under Ben Wilkinson’s leadership...
The Welsh born full-back is yet to feature for City’s youngsters this campaign having suffered two injuries since the summer which have kept him out of Wilkinson’s matchday squad.
But the 17-year-old has been working hard to get back to full fitness and hopefully gain some important match minutes before the end of the season.
“I’ve had a tough season so far,” began Thomas. “I injured my hip at the start of the season which was frustrating and then in September I had a grade two torn ligament in my ankle so that was another big blow for me.
“Then I worked hard to get back but then when training on the pitch I did it again so it was a bigger blow.
“But I knew I just had to start the process again, focus on my work in the gym to get myself stronger, build up and work on my ankle and stuff.
“I’m back on the pitch now and hoping to be training soon.”
So many setbacks in a short space of time can be difficult to deal with, physically and mentally.
But Thomas has showcased determination, resolute and character to continue his fight back to full fitness and to be a part of City’s Under-18s.
“It affected me a lot physically but then mentally it was quite hard at first,” said Thomas.
“The first time I did my ligament I was like ‘I’ll be fine, I’ll be back soon’ and then the second time it just didn’t feel as good.
“It was a big blow, I was quite down and then when you get told ‘you’ll be back soon’ and ‘you’ve done good work in the gym’ those are the high moments.
“And they motivate you. And then when you’re back on the pitch it’s so good to be back on the ball and running.”
A key factor in Thomas’ recovery has been those close to him, constantly supporting him through his programme.
He was appreciative of not only them, but the facilities at the City Football Academy and his team-mates which have helped make him more excited about his return to action in the near future.
“My family and friends have been amazing and really important. Especially when I first found out about my injury, they helped a lot,” Thomas continued.
“Speaking with the psychologist here I think he’s helped a lot as well so I think there is no better place to be.
“It’s a great Academy to be at, the facilities and the pitches are exceptional. I don’t think there is anywhere else I’d rather be.
“I think there is a bit of pressure because you’re at such a big club but yeah, I just got to keep working hard.
“When I’m back I’m hoping to enjoy my football more, hopefully keep playing and keep fit.
“I think it will take some time to build my minutes up because I’ve been out for such a long time now but I’m looking forward to it.”
Interview: Holly Percival
Leila Ouahabi became the latest member of the City squad to sign a contract extension in late February, committing her future to the Club until the summer of 2026.
The defender has followed the likes of Khiara Keating, Yui Hasegawa, Laura Coombs, Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw and Alanna Kennedy in agreeing new long-term deals in the past 12 months.
It points towards an exciting future at the City Football Academy for a team who are in the thick of a compelling Barclays Women’s Super League title race.
Ouahabi has been key to that success, and an important figure in our remarkable defensive record; the best in the league across 2023/24.
And she believes she’s in the best place to continue her own upward trajectory, which mirrors that of the Club.
“I think this is the best place to be for more years because of the style of play,” the Spaniard explained when interviewed about her new deal.
“Manchester City is like my characteristics, and I feel so comfortable playing here. I’m really enjoying playing for the Club and I’m feeling more comfortable every day.
“It’s because of all of those things that I wanted to stay here for more years.”
Ouahabi joined City with a glittering CV, having won every available domestic honour and the UEFA Champions League across two separate spells at FC Barcelona.
That European triumph, beating Chelsea in the 2021 final, is something that the 30-year-old has described as the best moment in her career, and she even sports a butterfly tattoo to signify that incredible achievement.
But the lure of the WSL was too great an opportunity to pass up for the defender.
Joining Gareth Taylor’s side presented Ouahabi with the chance to sample a league which she believes is the best in Europe.
She’d faced English sides before, including City, during Barca’s Champions League exploits, but believes her move to the WSL has helped her reach even loftier heights than she’d been able to in the past.
Ouahabi added: “To be fair, I think I’m a better player now, because I’ve improved my defensive aspects. Now, I think I’m much [more] complete.
“It’s so good for my feeling in the moment, and I want to keep going and improving more.
“For me, this is the best league and I want to stay here for more years. I’m really enjoying [playing] in this league and competition.
“For that reason, I’ve improved my defensive aspects much more.”
Ouahabi is an incredibly popular member of the squad, and the almost permanent smile etched across her face is a clear indication as to why that’s the case.
But while the defender has no regrets about her decision to leave Spain back in the summer of 2022, it came with its challenges.
Even the most outgoing and intrepid characters need time to fully adapt to a new language, climate and culture, and the Spaniard was no different. No wonder, then, that she’s taken her game to new levels in her second season at the Club.
“The decision was hard for me,” she admits when talking about leaving Barcelona.
“In that situation though, I wanted to come to England because I always thought I wanted to play here.
“My family always supported me in that decision though, and when I talked about this situation [contract extension] they were really happy for me and for my new experience in England.
“My family is very important to me. They always support me in my decisions and in my job.”
Despite that conviction that Ouahabi feels settled in Manchester, like many of our foreign stars there’s one thing that’s taken a little more getting used to…
“The weather! I’m adapted more with this weather now, but to be fair I really miss the sun some days. I need my vitamin D [laughs]… but I love the rain now!
“I like it in Manchester. I’m more adapted now. When I have my days off, I’m going to brunch, meeting with friends, I’m really enjoying being here.”
As she explains, it’s clear to see that Ouahabi is loving life at City.
Rarely one to gain the plaudits she deserves, the left-back confidently goes about her business, offering an experienced head and important defensive nous to an exciting young squad.
The way she kept Lauren James quiet for example – arguably one of the finest wingers in the game – in our 1-0 win over Chelsea in late February was testament to her ability to rub shoulders with the best in the business.
But Ouahabi’s quality in possession, so essential in City’s build-up play, is where she really thrives.
Whether it’s drifting into central areas to play a killer pass or getting beyond her winger and delivering an inch-perfect cross into the box, the Spaniard comes to life with the ball at her feet.
That desire to take calculated risks, push yourself out of your comfort zone and ultimately thrive under the pressure that brings, is key to Ouahabi’s philosophy on and off the pitch.
So much so, she has another tattoo which exemplifies that exact message!
“This one I like, the ‘live without regrets’,” she points to one of her tattoos as part of a recent interview highlighting her artwork with City Studios.
“I like this philosophy. Live and enjoy your life.
“I try [to follow this on the pitch]. Sometimes it’s hard because you might be nervous based on the game, but I always try to do this.”
Interview: George Kelsey
Max Alleyne says that when he makes his eagerly-awaited return to action with City’s Elite Development Squad it will be armed with an even greater appreciation for playing the game.
The young centre-back made huge strides with our Under-21s across the first half of the season with a series of outstanding individual performances.
Along the way, the 18-year-old also caught the eye of first team manager Pep Guardiola, being named on the bench for City’s Champions’ League group stage trip to Red Star Belgrade in early December.
But after subsequently being part of the City squad that lifted the FIFA Club World Cup out in Saudi Arabia shortly before Christmas, Alleyne’s progress was suddenly stalled by a back injury early in the New Year.
It’s one that means he is now unlikely to return to competitive action until the Spring.
But whenever that moment does arrive, Alleyne says he will return even more appreciative of what football provides and he also believes he will return a stronger and better person too.
“The problem is I had a stress fracture in my back, which I had when I was younger as well, they just said it's like from growth and that,” Alleyne revealed
“So, first of all, I had a shutdown period where I was just kind of off. I got some sun, which is very lucky considering we're in Manchester! And then it's just been on the bike and about building my strength. And yeah, that's about it.
“I didn't know about it until City wanted me to get a scan because I saw some symptoms, but it's probably down to a combination of growth and like playing a lot. I think I played a lot of minutes until Christmas with country and the Under-21s and stuff.
“I wouldn't say it was even more frustrating given how the first half of the season went, but it's just going to be frustrating however it is.
“But training like I was with the first team quite a bit and doing well, yeah, it's tricky, but it is what it is.
“I appreciated football before, but afterwards I think even more so. You just miss it so much when you see your teammates going out to train and watching them play. So yeah, definitely.
“And I do think I have become stronger as a person too.
“I think there's a lot of people at the Club that help offer support like I've had meetings with people. Just offering anything really if you need it. That I think is so helpful.
“And I feel like if you can bounce back from injury, you can come back from a lot of things. So, it's been helpful to build that, yeah.
“In terms of a return, I had some good news saying that my scan was really good.
“So, I'm hoping to be back out running soon and then just go from there, really maybe a month or six weeks.
“The temptation is that you want to rush it as quickly as you can, but the guys, the physios, they're so good, they know what they're doing, and you have just got to trust what they're saying really.”
What made being sidelined all the more frustrating were the memorable experiences Max was afforded in December.
First, he was selected as one of our substitutes for our impressive 3-2 Champions League group stage win away to Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade.
And almost immediately he was selected by Pep Guardiola as part of the City squad that went on to lift the FIFA Club World Cup out in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
That trip to Belgrade proved a special one for City’s Academy with EDS skipper Micah Hamilton scoring on his first team debut, fellow Academy graduate Oscar Bobb also finding the target and Mahamadou Susoho coming on as a substitute for his first team bow with City securing victory to round off a perfect group stage campaign.
Afterwards, Guardiola revealed that he would have also afforded Alleyne a debut from the bench but for two late Red Star replies.
“At the end I wanted to put Max on as a central defender because he has a special quality with the ball, but the game was not quite under control but it's a big compliment for all the academy for many years,” Pep said.
From Alleyne’s own perspective the trip to Belgrade was an unforgettable experience with those complimentary words from the boss proving priceless – as did subsequently spending a week with the City squad competing in Jeddah at the FIFA Club World Cup where he picked up a winners’ medal.
“Out in Belgrade it was so loud in the stadium, but it was amazing just watching the game, being around the team, seeing how like they prepare for game,” Max recalled.
“I think being involved with teammates from the Academy is really helpful, but the guys over there [in the first team] are so helpful.
“You've got Rico [Lewis], Oscar [Bobb] and Phil [Foden], who obviously have done it themselves and they're so good with you and just talking and everyone's so helpful.
“It was a really nice thing to hear Pep like referencing that we were there, and we were part of the team.
“He didn't have to say that, and my parents were really happy to hear that.
“Being out in Saudi with the team was just amazing. Just training with them and seeing what they do and how they prepare. Any experience with them so good and seeing it all was amazing.
“Everyone's so nice and welcoming and everyone mixes together, and everyone is so, so helpful.
“You can talk to more experienced players. Scott [Carson] is amazing. So, so helpful. And the younger players as well just coming up. So it's really helpful.
"I just felt a bit like starstruck when we won the final. Like, I just didn't know what to think. I just felt lucky to be there, to be honest and to get a medal was incredible.
“That whole experience was really amazing.”
Interview: Neil Leigh
The new version of the old City Magazine – MANC (see what we did there?) was still in its infancy in 2011...
In fact, this was only the sixth edition since we’d changed names, outlook, and design to present a much edgier, vibrant format that fitted in with the ‘anything is possible’ attitude of the Club at that time.
It was (and still is), a very exciting place to work, but editorially, we were given a free reign to make something our music and culture savvy fans would enjoy.
The only thing that is surprising is that it took six issues before Mario Balotelli appeared on the cover!
In one of MANC’s best interviews, the editor sat down with Mario and spoke about everything from his pet dog Lucky, to private visits to Chester Zoo and everything in-between.
It was a lengthy chat with one of football’s most enigmatic characters and was pre ‘Why Always Me?’.
But Mario had already made a big impression and the City fans loved him.
It’s a fan-relationship he never really struck anywhere else, and his on and off the pitch antics only made him an even bigger cult figure among Blues fans.
The picture was taken by Sharon Latham, with the ‘shhh!’ pose that wasn’t as common as it is today, and the headline ‘Wild Thing?’ a hook into his love of animals as much as anything.
Anyhow, put all as one package it worked pretty well!
DC
Six members of Gareth Taylor’s squad travelled to the United Arab Emirates for a warm weather training camp with Experience Abu Dhabi...
Steph Houghton, Demi Stokes, Leila Ouahabi, Laura Coombs, Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw and Tara O’Hanlon were all hard at work in the Abu Dhabi sun during the international break, ensuring they return to action in peak condition ahead of an exciting end to the campaign.
However, there were also plenty of chances to enjoy all that Abu Dhabi has to offer, including a visit to City Challenge and quad biking across the stunning nearby sand dunes.
Check out the best images from our six stars’ time in the UAE gallery below…
This season I’m taking you on an A-to-Z tour of Manchester and possibly taking a few liberties with the alphabet. Expect lots of musicians, an occasional session with a footballer and whatever else I can find in my archive...
This issue we’re up to the letter G and I had a lot to choose from – especially the Gallaghers, but I’m saving them for another issue.
I thought I’d feature someone who was hugely instrumental in establishing the Manchester music scene, and who was also a massive City fan: Rob Gretton.
Prior to managing Joy Division and New Order, Rob managed Wythenshawe’s finest: Slaughter and the Dogs, and produced a fanzine for them entitled Manchester Rains. He deejayed at Rafters and had his own record label to help out aspiring punk bands. He once asked me to take a shot for the sleeve of a record by Ian Nance and a band called Panik. I knew there was no money in it really, so I charged him what it’d cost me in film and processing – around £20. Rob was aghast when I gave him the invoice, and immediately got onto Steve McGarry, his designer and old school friend, for him to change my credit from Photo by Kevin Cummins to EXPENSIVE photo by Kevin Cummins.
Rob and I – along with his mate Mike Pickering and a few others – could be found every home game in The Gardner’s Arms on the ironically named Victory Street off Claremont Road.
He proudly brought his son, Benedict, resplendent in new City shirt, to his first game, via The Gardner’s, when he was four or five. Within minutes of putting, it on he came out in a massive rash. Rob had to take him to hospital and miss the match. It turned out he was allergic to the shirt. “Saved him from a life of misery.” Rob said laconically.
We worked together on many occasions. Once in New York in the Summer of ’83 we had a party at the hot club there: Danceteria. Ruth Polsky who ran the club wanted us to see a new act. She arranged a PA on the roof of the club and around 10 of us saw one of the first performances by Madonna. Later that evening, Rob found a jumpsuit owned by the resident DJ Johnny Dynell, and wore it – with distinction – for the rest of the night.
At the party, Rob invited Madonna over to Manchester to play ‘his’ club: The Haçienda. She agreed and finally came in February ’84. By then she’d had a couple of hits, and The Tube (a C4 music programme) wanted to broadcast this appearance. She danced and mimed to two or three songs – then back in the dressing room, Rob asked her if she’d like to do her show again when the club opened later. “I’ll give you an extra fiver” he said. Unsurprisingly she turned down the less than generous offer.
In 1985 when I was shooting New Order in my studio for an NME cover, Rob was chatting to my assistant Rebecca. Halfway through the shoot he told me Rebecca had agreed to leave me to work for him. I was less than impressed with his Machiavellian manner, but it was clearly the right thing for Rebecca, who later went on to manage the band – and continues to do so to this day.
Our 1998/99 season was a dreadful experience – don’t let some misty -eyed City fans tell you otherwise. We were at our lowest ebb (as well as our lowest ever league position). We managed to scrape into the play offs where we played Wigan on 15 May, with the first game being at their old ground, Springfield Park. I was waiting outside the ground for some friends with my daughter Ella, when one came over to me and said: “Do you know about Rob? He died this morning.” It was a huge shock of course. We were expecting him to turn up at any minute.
I have no memory of the game. We were in a state of shock. He was 46 years old.
Mike [Pickering] and I often discuss how much Rob would have enjoyed the past 15 years or so. He liked to moan about how poor we were – we all did – but I bet he’d have been as emotional as were all were on that night at the Etihad when we took the mighty Real Madrid apart.
It’s tough watching City without some of the friends you’ve shared the trip with, but I often imagine Rob in the pub after a match, pushing his glasses up his nose while saying, “that bloody Aguero. He’s not too bad though is he?”
Kevin Cummins
Since his return from injury in City’s 3-1 victory over Burnley, Erling Haaland has since rubber-stamped his status as an imperative Fantasy Premier League purchase.
The Norwegian’s introduction from the substitutes bench against the Clarets in late January represented his first appearance for Pep Guardiola’s side for six gameweeks as goals from Julian Alvarez (two) and Rodrigo helped secure the success.
Following his appearance versus Vincent Kompany’s side, he has tallied 34 FPL points in the four fixtures that have followed – raising his overall tally this term to 146.
Haaland’s first start since returning came in our 3-1 victory over Brentford on 5 February where a sublime Phil Foden hat-trick helped City come from a goal down to collect three points.
During the clash at the Gtech Community Stadium, the forward assisted the England international’s third – earning the former five points by the match’s end.
He then followed up his promising Bees display with a match-winning outing against Everton a week later when he scored a second-half double which vitally contributed to our 2-0 success.
Thanks to his two goal haul against the Toffees, Haaland registered 13 points – the second time he
In a frustrating 1-1 draw against Chelsea, he collected one point but tallied eight in our 1-0 win over Brentford at the Etihad thanks to his cool finish helping us to the success.
Then, to close the month, he was credited with the assist to Foden’s goal in our hard fought 1-0 win over Bournemouth where he gained five points on the south coast.
His five-goal haul at Luton, of course, does not count towards the FPL!
Words: Sam Cox
The subject of this month's Mixed Grilling is a true Blue ‘lifer’. His City-related exploits make a great read, as I’m sure you will agree.
SO, LETS GET TO IT!
"I’m Colin, and thanks to my father Henry (Adge to his friends) I’ve been a City fan for over 45 years and had a season ticket for more than 40 years. My first kit was sent to me in 1974 when I was living in Australia with my parents, and my first game was Boxing Day 1977 after we had returned, and it was a part of my Christmas present. I was sat in the North Stand and watched Denis Tueart score a hat trick as we beat Newcastle 4-0. I have over 100 replica kits, and over 1000 match programmes from the 70s, 80s and 90s. I used to follow the boys everywhere, home and away, and loved going all over the country, especially in the late 80s.
Me then (above), and me now (below)!
I was one of the 200,000 at York away (no really I was!), and one of the away fans in Ewood Park the day we returned to the Premier League, although I did leave Wembley in the 90th minute about 40 seconds before Kev’s first, and listened to Dickov’s equaliser whilst eating a burger! I did get back to my seat for the start of extra time though (sorry to all those shaking their heads right now!).
I did rupture my Achilles celebrating the opening goal by Raheem Sterling v Tottenham in the Champions League Quarter Final… and spent the rest of the game at the MRI, where half the place jumped up thinking he had scored the winner in the last minute, only to be disappointed when the dreaded VAR stepped in… and then I watched from my wheelchair as Vinny struck from 30 yards against Leicester.
I’m from a large family of Blues, and my daughter, Ella, is now a diehard ,too. I never dared to dream when I was getting duffed up in school for being a Blue, that one day we would win five trophies in one calendar year, and I would get to see my team lift the jug-eared cup in person!
WHAT IS YOUR EARLIEST MEMORY OF GOING TO A FOOTBALL MATCH?
1981 – Saturday, 9 May – I went to bed on the Friday knowing that my dad, and uncles were all going to Wembley the following day, and after taking ages to get to sleep because I was so upset that I couldn’t go, I was finally sleeping soundly at 6am when I felt my Dad shaking me to say goodbye! Cruel, I know, but he then waved a ticket in front of my face and said ‘surprise!!’ – I was going to Wembley! 7am, we left Middleton on a coach for London and the rest as they say is history!
WHAT IS THE MOST PECULIAR OR MEMORABLE THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO YOU AT A CITY GAME?
Travelling to Istanbul, watching the team I have followed for 45 years, win a European Cup was wonderful and cutting the back of my legs on the chairs (if you know, you know), but the icing on the cake was being able to video message my Dad back home, to say thank you to him for taking me to Maine Road in the mid 70s and be able to share that moment with him. I know he would have been there with me but he was unable to travel due to having dementia.
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME AND PREVENT ONE MATCH FROM BEING PLAYED - WHAT MATCH WOULD THAT BE - AND WHY?
The Bradford disaster – 11 May 1985. Training for my job means I watched the video of that disaster, and the speed that the fire spread was horrific. If I could go back and stop all those innocent people from perishing, I would. From a City point of view, probably any game where that lot across the way beat us in the early 80s when I had to go to school on the Monday!
WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE CITY GOAL YOU HAVE WITNESSED? (“Aguerooooooooo…” aside…)
Rodri, Istanbul.
HAVE YOU EVER MET ONE OF YOUR MAN CITY HEROES… IF SO - WHO… AND HOW WAS THE EXPERIENCE?
I’ve met quite a few players over the years, but the one that stands out is Paul Lake, such a lovely and unassuming man, humble and it saddens me the way his career was ended, not by the injury, but by the way the injury was treated!
WHICH PLAYER WERE YOU MOST SAD TO SEE LEAVE CITY?
Earlier years, Paul Stewart, but more recently, David Silva. It was like watching an ice-skating sensation watching him glide around the pitch.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE CITY TERRACE ANTHEM?
'Follow you everywhere'…why? Because it brings back memories of drinking, singing and being jolly in the fan park in Istanbul. I also like most of the ones where we take the mick out of ourselves (invisible man, going down with a billion in the bank etc!)
WHATS YOUR MOST DISASTROUS AWAY GAME EXPERIENCE?
My first away game, without my Dad – Hull away 29 September 1987 – aged 16 – got off the 12-seater coach in Hull, got attacked by around 20 of their so-called fans, police arrived, we got arrested, missed the game, we lost, released without charge at midnight. Got home at 2am to a rollicking from my Mum…
WHO IS YOUR MOST FAVOURITE CITY PLAYER OF ALL TIME?
Has to be who I am named after – Colin Bell, Nijinsky, another one who glided over the turf!
IF YOU COULD PICK ONE CURRENT CITY PLAYER TO BE ON YOUR PUB QUIZ TEAM - WHO WOULD IT BE - AND WHY?
It has be Akanji – the guy is a genius, and to think we only paid £15M for him!
Here, we uncover another classic Q&A from days gone by with Shoot Magazine's 'Focus on Asa Hartford'...
Full name:
Richard Asa Hartford
Birthplace:
Clydebank, Dumbartonshire
Birthdate:
October 24, 1956
Height:
5" 5'
Weight:
10st 12lbs
Previous club:
West Brom
Married:
Yes, to Joy
Children:
None
Car:
Cortina 2000GT
Favourite player:
Billy Bremner
Favourite other team:
None in particular
Most difficult opponent:
Too many to mention
Most memorable match:
Scotland v England, Hampden Park 1972
Biggest thrill:
Playing in the above game
Biggest disappointment:
Being subbed v Manchester City as a West Brom player in the 1970 League Cup final
Best country visited:
Brazil
Favourite food:
Scampi
Miscellaneous likes:
Most sports, music and movies
Miscellaneous dislikes:
Bad drivers, flying, ignorant people
Favourite singers:
Paul Simon, Barry White, Diana Ross, Elton John, Rod Stewart
Favourite actors:
Gene Hackman, Faye Dunnaway, Dustin Hoffman
Best friends:
Len Cantello (WBA), Hugh Read (Crewe) and John Clements
Biggest influence on career:
Stuart Williams, former coach at West Brom
Biggest drag in soccer:
Inconsistent referees
International honours:
6x full Scotland caps,5x U23 caps
Personal ambition:
To be happy and content with whatever I'm involved in
Professional ambition:
To be in a Championship-winning side
If you weren't a footballer, what do you think you'd be?
Pass!
Which player in the world would you most lie to meet?
Golfer Gary Player
To mark ‘National Girls and Women in Sports Day’ on February 7, the Club’s charity, City in the Community (CITC), celebrated stories from its female degree students through the release of a new story in its participant story-telling series, ‘We Are City in the Community’.
Each month, CITC is spotlighting its work and programmes through the voices and stories of its participants across Manchester.
In the latest story, we hear from Hafsa and Katie, who both study on the BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching Degree in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU).
The programmes bring together CITC’s community football coaching knowledge with Manchester Metropolitan’s academic expertise, to offer the best of both worlds and an integrated path to rewarding career goals.
The degree combines classroom - and practical - based teaching at MMU’s newly launched Institute of Sport with work-based learning at the state-of-the-art Etihad Campus.
Hafsa and Katie sat down with a member of the CITC team to discuss their journey and involvement in sport, as well as why they think it is important for women to get involved in the sport industry.
HAFSA:
“In a world where sports have been dominated by men, it’s inspiring to see an increase in the involvement of young women breaking barriers and pursuing their passion for sports.
“As a young woman from an ethnic minority, entering a sports industry with limited representation is challenging.
“It makes me feel determined and motivated to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for other ethnic minorities like me who have the same career aspirations but lack a role model.
“The degree programme offers a range of exciting opportunities; access to first class facilities, expert coaching and mentoring, networking with the industry professionals etc.
“This will further enhance my coaching ability and ensure I have the correct leaderships skills in order for me to become an expert in the field.
“Ambitions for the future include becoming an expert in the coaching field; pushing myself outside my comfort zone to enable me to grow and learn as a person, as well as being a role model for young girls and women, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the sports industry.
“The future of the sports industry holds promise for young girls and women. The increase in young girls brings fresh perspectives and come with a drive to challenge status quo.
“The increase of the support and recognition means that we can expect to see more female athletes and coaches making their mark.”
KATIE:
“I have always been passionate and interested in sports since I was little. I grew up playing football from the age of four and have always loved it and been passionate about it.
“When I came across the degree programme it looked perfect for me and seemed like a great opportunity for a pathway into a career in football.
“It feels good to be a breaking into the sports industry as a young woman, especially when you can see all the opportunities for us in the industry and you get to see it first-hand around CITC whilst on this programme.
“I think that if the current women in sport continue to be great role models for young girls and continue inspiring them to play and get involved in sport then I envisage a positive future.
“I’ve seen it first hand with the City Women’s team with being a season ticket holder. On match days three years ago one side of the stadium would be open.
“Whereas now for most games all four sides of the stadium are open, and the attendance is so much bigger than what it was, which is great for young girls to witness.”
Keep an eye out for more female stories in the coming month as CITC celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8.
City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football.
To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCManCity.charity on social media @CITCmancity.
Our new City Mag feature takes a look back at long-forgotten matches. The only criteria to qualify for the Random Match Generator is that the game was unremarkable and one that few people will remember…or want to forget!
For our second instalment, we go back 25 years for an FA Cup tie that did not live long in the memory but is still a part of our DNA.
Wimbledon 1- City 0
Saturday, 2 January 1999
FA Cup, 3rd round
Attendance: 11,226
City: Weaver, Jim Whitley, Vaughan, Wiekens, Morrison, Horlock, Brown, Pollock (Russell 84), Taylor, Dickov, Goater. Subs not used: Bishop, Jeff Whitley, Shelia, Wright
It was a bleak midwinter for City fans in 1998. Christmas Day was spent in the lowest position in the Club’s history after the infamous 2-1 defeat at York City as we languished 12th in the third tier.
But that was a landmark game which is why we’re not looking back at it! Instead we’re going to recall a miserable FA Cup tie a few days later when our challenge ended in the third round.
Relegation the previous season had seen us forced to enter the competition at the first round stage and we started with a 3-0 win over fourth-tier Halifax Town.
A 1-1 draw at Darlington brought the second round tie back to Maine Road and a chance to face Premier League side Wimbledon with Michael Brown’s goal sealing a 1-0 victory.
That meant a trip to Selhurst Park, where the Dons were then playing their home games, and a venue that is one of the awkwardest to reach from Manchester.
Despite our difficulties, City fans had been travelling in huge numbers around the country, taking in grounds such as Macclesfield, Walsall and York for the first time in a generation.
At Euston railway station on third round day, hailstones with a 15mm diameter were reported while persistent rain fell throughout the country.
But of course our supporters were there in numbers, with more than half the crowd inside stadium supporting Joe Royle’s side making a mockery of the song: “Where were you when you were…” well you know the rest.
City’s form had taken a slight uptick following the Bootham Crescent despair with a 1-0 Boxing Day win at Wrexham, seen as a turning point in a season that would end in promotion with that glorious win over Gillingham at Wembley.
That was followed by a 2-1 victory over Stoke as we finished the year with back-to-back wins ahead of the trip to Wimbledon.
However, the Dons were in good form, having won their last seven games at Selhurst Park and there was hardly the promise of a thrill ride with two of the winning streak finishing 1-0 and the others 2-1.
It was the latter days of the infamous ‘Crazy Gang’ mentality under Joe Kinnear with long balls and no-nonsense defending maintaining their top division status.
Still we travelled with hope, and the game remained goalless at half-time.
A magic moment came on the hour when Paul Dickov brilliantly scissor-kicked home Gareth Taylor’s cross but the goal was ruled out for a tight offside.
Minutes later, Wimbledon were ahead with a scruffy winner. Future City star Mark Kennedy fired over a low cross that we failed to deal with on the bobbly surface and ex-City player Michael Hughes teed up Carl Cort to finish.
Things got worse shortly after when Andy Morrison was sent off, earning a three-match suspension.
After superb defending to stop Cort, the Wimbledon striker grabbed Morrison’s leg who responded with a hand-off to the face. It sparked a melee that saw both see red from Graham Poll who later sent off Wimbledon’s Jason Euell.
But the 10 men of City couldn’t find an equaliser against the nine of Wimbledon and another cup run came to an end in abrupt fashion.
It did at least allow us to focus on our promotion charge, with just two defeats from our remaining fixtures including our play-off success and that was followed by another promotion back to the Premier League under Royle.
Of all the games in 1999, the first one to kick off the year in south London was probably the least memorable.
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