Thousands of Manchester City fans transformed the city's streets into a sea of blue to celebrate their team's historic Premier League title win. Pep Guardiola's side made history by becoming the first team in English top-flight history to secure the title for four consecutive seasons, lifting the trophy on May 19.
Despite inclement weather, fans gathered to cheer the team as they paraded through the streets from the National Football Museum to a stage set up outside the Hilton hotel on Deansgate. The parade was delayed until late in the evening due to the Greater Manchester Run taking place earlier in the day.
The fans had the opportunity to see the Premier League trophy, along with the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup, during the celebration. However, the absence of one particular trophy was evident, as it weighed on Guardiola's mind after his team narrowly missed out on a record-breaking double-double.
"We will be back next season," Guardiola assured BBC Radio Manchester. "The FA Cup, we will take it."
With one year remaining on his contract, speculation has arisen about how much longer Pep Guardiola might remain at Manchester City. Reflecting on his tenure, Guardiola said, "Even myself, I couldn’t expect to stay here eight years but everything goes well. Step by step we are here. It looks routine but it’s not routine."
However, when asked if he would "please stay forever," the 53-year-old could only laugh.
The club's talismanic striker, Erling Haaland, expressed his satisfaction after a remarkable season that earned him a second consecutive Premier League Golden Boot. Haaland scored 27 goals in the league and 38 in all competitions.
Reflecting on the season, the Norwegian said, "It’s been lovely again and a fourth in a row, it’s amazing this club. I’m so proud of everybody and happy. There have been many good moments but when we knew we were going to win the league, I have to say [that was the best]. The support home and away has been unbelievable. I’m proud. What can I say? I can't complain."
City supporter Clare reflected on the season as one of "making history," highlighting Kevin De Bruyne as a favorite player for both her and her daughter. "The support from the fans has been brilliant," she said.
Sean, who attended the parade with his family, shared his pride in the team's achievement, saying it felt "great knowing that they’ve got that winning mentality in them to win four in a row." Despite their continuous success, he emphasized that he did not "take it for granted," noting, "They know exactly what they need to do and they get out there and get the job done."
Nathan, who attended the parade with his father, mentioned his long-standing connection to the club, having been a season ticket holder for 20 years. He humorously recalled, "I wasn't that happy being dragged to games when I was a kid. It's got a bit better since my teens," he added with a grin.