Manchester City triumphed over West Ham 3-1 at Etihad Stadium, clinching their fourth consecutive English league title—a feat unmatched in the 136-year history of the competition.
Needing a victory to secure the title ahead of Arsenal, who were two points behind with a superior goal difference, City started strong. Phil Foden opened the scoring just two minutes into the match.
CHAMPIONS AGAIN OLE OLE! 🏆🏆🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/75a5rVzeLw
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 19, 2024
He added another before halftime, and although Mohammed Kudus managed to pull one back for West Ham, Rodri’s 59th-minute strike from the edge of the area restored City’s two-goal advantage.
Despite a late scare when West Ham had a goal disallowed by VAR for handball, City’s dominance was never truly in jeopardy.
Into the final stages ⏱️
🩵 3-1 ⚒️ #ManCity pic.twitter.com/GdvvjJFH1Y
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 19, 2024
This victory extended their unbeaten run to 19 wins and four draws since their last league defeat against Aston Villa on December 6. City has now secured six of the past seven Premier League titles.
Last season, they joined Huddersfield, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United in winning the top flight three years consecutively. With this latest achievement, Guardiola’s squad has set a new standard in English football history.
City will now aim to complete the domestic Double for a second consecutive season when they face Manchester United in the FA Cup final on May 25.
Scenes. pic.twitter.com/RxC8sZuIyY
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 19, 2024
This success comes despite the cloud of 115 Premier League charges for alleged financial irregularities that City vehemently deny. Meanwhile, Everton and Nottingham Forest were recently charged and penalized for breaching profit and sustainability rules, with no update yet on City’s case.
Phil Foden, who has already won the Football Writers’ Association and Premier League Player of the Year awards, is a strong contender for the Professional Footballers’ Association award as well.
At 23, Foden boasts six league titles, still trailing Ryan Giggs’ record of 13. However, given City’s current dominance, Foden seems poised to continue adding to his tally.
Guardiola has praised Foden’s development, highlighting his improved all-round game, superior runs, and exceptional close control. Foden’s performance against West Ham showcased his skill, especially with his second goal, which came from a precise pass by Jeremy Doku.
CHAMPIONS 🏆🕺 pic.twitter.com/VYfKFlh1X9
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 19, 2024
City’s confident display began with a strong start, as Foden quickly alleviated any pre-match nerves among the fans. Despite West Ham’s limited threat, missing key player Jarrod Bowen and with manager David Moyes set to depart, the home side dominated. Foden’s second goal, his 26th of the season, epitomized his composure and precision.
West Ham’s goalkeeper, Alphonse Areola, managed to keep the scoreline respectable in the first half, making several key saves. However, City’s relentless pressure eventually paid off with Rodri’s decisive goal, which was reminiscent of his Champions League winner against Inter Milan.
HISTORY MAKERS 🏆🏆🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/FHngXJlKim
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 19, 2024
Guardiola’s passion and commitment were evident throughout the match, celebrating each goal with fervor. His 12 league titles in 15 seasons, 16 if including his sabbatical year, underscore his exceptional managerial success.
Despite the significant financial investments in his squads, Guardiola’s consistent success is unmatched, particularly when compared to rivals like Jurgen Klopp. In terms of silverware, Guardiola’s achievements place him alongside the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson in English football’s highest echelons.