Short answer: Manchester City were founded in 1880 as St. Mark’s (West Gorton) and became Manchester City in 1894. They have won 10 league titles, eight FA Cups, nine League Cups and one Champions League, in 2022–23, and won the Premier League with a record 100 points in 2017-18.

One of the football clubs with most fans in the world, Manchester City Football Club, commonly referred to as Man City, is an English professional football club with a rich history and an impressive list of achievements.

Today, let’s have a closer look at the fascinating journey of this iconic football club.

What is the history of Manchester City?

Founded in 1880 as St. Mark’s (West Gorton), the club underwent several name changes before becoming Manchester City in 1894. They joined the Football League in 1892 and quickly made a name for themselves, winning their first major honor, the FA Cup, in 1904. Manchester City enjoyed a period of success in the late 1960s and early 1970s, securing league titles, FA Cups, League Cups, and even European glory.

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Despite facing challenges and periods of decline, including relegation to the third tier in 1998, Manchester City made a triumphant return to the top tier in 2002–03. The club’s history took a significant turn in 2008 when they received substantial financial investment from Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan through the Abu Dhabi United Group. This marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented success for the club.

Manchester City Trophies

Trophies in England

First Division/Premier League: 10

Second Division: 7

FA Cup: 8

Football League Cup/EFL Cup: 9

FA Charity Shield/FA Community Shield: 7

One of the most popular English football clubs in the world, Manchester City’s success story in England includes 10 league titles, eight FA Cups, nine League Cups, and seven FA Community Shields. They achieved their first league title in 1936–37 and have continued to dominate domestic competitions over the years. In 2025–26 City won both the League Cup and the FA Cup and finished second in the Premier League, seven points behind Arsenal.

Trophies in Europe

Champions League Titles: 1

UEFA Super Cup Titles: 1

European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1

In European competitions, Manchester City has made a mark by winning the UEFA Champions League in the 2022–23 season. This triumph marked a historic moment for the club, and it was the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.

What records has Manchester City set?

Manchester City has set numerous records over the years, showcasing their dominance in English football. Notable records include:

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  • Winning the Premier League with a historic 100 points in a single season in 2017-18 under the management of Pep Guardiola.
  • Completing an unprecedented sweep of all domestic titles in England in 2018–19, becoming the first English men’s team to win the domestic treble.
  • Achieving four consecutive Premier League titles in 2020–21 to 2023–24, a Premier League record.

What are the top facts about Manchester City?

See our richest football clubs ranking. Manchester City reported revenue of £694.1 million for 2024/25. Manchester City’s journey began in 1880 under the name St. Mark’s (West Gorton), eventually evolving into the club we know today.

The club moved to the City of Manchester Stadium (now the Etihad Stadium) in 2003, marking a new chapter in their history.

Manchester City’s iconic sky blue home shirts have been a part of their identity since 1894.

They are known for their incredible comeback in the 2011–12 Premier League season, securing their first league title in 44 years with a dramatic last-minute victory.

Manchester City’s ownership by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008 ushered in an era of significant financial investment and success.

What are some fun facts about Manchester City?

Former City goalkeeper Bert Trautmann played on unknowingly with a broken neck during the 1956 FA Cup final, displaying incredible dedication.

Manchester City holds the record for the highest home attendance at any English club ground when 84,569 fans packed Maine Road for an FA Cup tie in 1934.

The club experienced a rapid rise under the management of Joe Mercer and Malcolm Allison in the late 1960s and early 1970s, securing league titles, FA Cups, and even European glory.

The 2011–12 Premier League title victory, secured with a last-minute goal by Sergio Agüero, is considered one of the greatest moments in Premier League history.

Manchester City’s 2022–23 season saw them win their first-ever Champions League title, completing the continental treble.

Who is Manchester City’s head coach?

Enzo Maresca is listed by the Premier League as Manchester City’s manager for 2026/27, succeeding Pep Guardiola, who led the club from 2016 to the end of 2025/26. City’s honours above are totals after the 2025/26 season, in which they won the League Cup (a ninth win) and the FA Cup (an eighth win).

Conclusion

See our ranking of the richest Premier League football clubs. Manchester City’s history is a testament to the club’s resilience, dedication, and continuous pursuit of excellence. From their early days as St. Mark’s to becoming Premier League and Champions League champions, the club has left an indelible mark on the world of football.

With their rich history, impressive trophy cabinet, and a bright future, Manchester City remains a football powerhouse.

FAQ

When was Manchester City founded?

Manchester City Football Club was founded in 1880 as St. Mark’s (West Gorton).

How many league titles has Manchester City won in England?

Manchester City has won 10 league titles in England, most recently in 2023–24.

What was the significance of the 2011–12 Premier League season for Manchester City?

The 2011–12 season is memorable for Manchester City as they secured their first league title in 44 years with a dramatic last-minute victory.

Who is the all-time leading goalscorer for Manchester City?

Sergio Agüero is the all-time leading goalscorer for Manchester City with 260 goals.

When did Manchester City win their first UEFA Champions League title?

Manchester City won their first UEFA Champions League title in the 2022–23 season.

How many FA Cups and League Cups has Manchester City won?

Manchester City has won the FA Cup eight times and the League Cup nine times, both most recently in 2025–26.

Who is Manchester City’s head coach?

Enzo Maresca, who succeeded Pep Guardiola for the 2026/27 season.

Sources

Honours, records and appointments as published by the clubs and competitions, last checked on 1 November 2026.