Manchester City has won a trio of prizes at the end of season Premier League awards. Manager Pep Guardiola has won his third Premier League Manager of the Season award as he led his side to their third Premier League title in four seasons.

The Catalan, who was also named LMA Manager of the Year last month, beat Marcelo Bielsa, David Moyes, Brendan Rodgers and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to the award, in a season where his team finished 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

Just weeks after collecting the FWA Player of the Year Award, Ruben Dias has been named Premier League Player of the Season. Signed from Benfica last summer, the Portuguese international has had an outstanding impact in his first season in England.

City kept 15 clean sheets in Dias’ 32 league appearances as they secured the meanest defence in the division. This is the defender’s third accolade of the summer having also received FWA recognition and been named the Club’s Etihad Player of the Season. Phil Foden completed the sweep of honours, by being named Premier League Young Player of the Season.

The City Academy graduate has had a season to remember for his boyhood club, adding a third Premier League and fourth Carabao Cup medal to his collection, as well as starting in the Club’s first ever UEFA Champions League final. With 16 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, Foden fought off competition from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Illan Meslier, Mason Mount, Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka to secure the award.

Foden remains shortlisted for PFA Young Player of the Year and joins Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin de Bruyne and Diasin the running for the main PFA Player of the Year award, to be announced tomorrow.<o:p></o:p>

Manchester City has won a trio of prizes at the end of season Premier League awards. Manager Pep Guardiola has won his third Premier League Manager of the Season award as he led his side to their third Premier League title in four seasons.

Manchester City has won a trio of prizes at the end of season Premier League awards. Manager Pep Guardiola has won his third Premier League Manager of the Season award as he led his side to their third Premier League title in four seasons. The Catalan, who was also named LMA Manager of the Year last month, beat Marcelo Bielsa, David Moyes, Brendan Rodgers and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to the award, in a season where his team finished 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Just weeks after collecting the FWA Player of the Year Award, Ruben Dias has been named Premier League Player of the Season. Signed from Benfica last summer, the Portuguese international has had an outstanding impact in his first season in England. City kept 15 clean sheets in Dias’ 32 league appearances as they secured the meanest defence in the division. This is the defender’s third accolade of the summer having also received FWA recognition and been named the Club’s Etihad Player of the Season. Phil Foden completed the sweep of honours, by being named Premier League Young Player of the Season. The City Academy graduate has had a season to remember for his boyhood club, adding a third Premier League and fourth Carabao Cup medal to his collection, as well as starting in the Club’s first ever UEFA Champions League final. With 16 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, Foden fought off competition from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Illan Meslier, Mason Mount, Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka to secure the award. Foden remains shortlisted for PFA Young Player of the Year and joins Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin de Bruyne and Diasin the running for the main PFA Player of the Year award, to be announced tomorrow.

Football: Manchester City win trio Of Premier League Awards

Manchester City defender Ruben Dias was named the Premier League Player of the Season on Saturday, becoming the second Portuguese to receive the honor after former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

City boss Pep Guardiola was named Manager of the Season for the third time.

Center-back Dias was named England's&nbsp;Footballer of the Year in the annual vote of the&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Writers' Association last month following a superb debut campaign after his move from Benfica last year.

Dias played a key role in delivering City's third Premier League title in four years as well as the League Cup and helped his side the Champions League final.

The 24-year-old was also named in the Professional&nbsp;Footballers' Association (PFA) Team of the Year.

Dias is the fourth defender to be voted Player of the Season by the public, the captains of the 20 Premier League clubs, and a panel of experts after Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic, former City captain Vincent Kompany and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk.

His compatriot and former Manchester United forward Ronaldo won the award in 2006-07 and 2007-08.

Other nominees for the award this season included Kevin De Bruyne, Bruno Fernandes, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, Mason Mount, Mohamed Salah, and Tomas Soucek.

Guardiola won the manager's award in 2017-18 and again in 2018-19 when he led City to consecutive league titles.

Under the Spaniard, City conceded the fewest goals (32) this season and kept clean sheets in half of their games (19) to finish 12 points clear of second-placed United.

Guardiola won the award ahead of fellow nominees Marcelo Bielsa (Leeds United), David Moyes (West Ham United), Brendan Rodgers (Leicester City), and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (Manchester United).

Manchester City defender Ruben Dias was named the Premier League Player of the Season on Saturday, becoming the second Portuguese to receive the honor after former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

Manchester City defender Ruben Dias was named the Premier League Player of the Season on Saturday, becoming the second Portuguese to receive the honor after former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo. City boss Pep Guardiola was named Manager of the Season for the third time. Center-back Dias was named England's Footballer of the Year in the annual vote of the Football Writers' Association last month following a superb debut campaign after his move from Benfica last year. Dias played a key role in delivering City's third Premier League title in four years as well as the League Cup and helped his side the Champions League final. The 24-year-old was also named in the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Team of the Year. Dias is the fourth defender to be voted Player of the Season by the public, the captains of the 20 Premier League clubs, and a panel of experts after Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic, former City captain Vincent Kompany and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk. His compatriot and former Manchester United forward Ronaldo won the award in 2006-07 and 2007-08. Other nominees for the award this season included Kevin De Bruyne, Bruno Fernandes, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, Mason Mount, Mohamed Salah, and Tomas Soucek. Guardiola won the manager's award in 2017-18 and again in 2018-19 when he led City to consecutive league titles. Under the Spaniard, City conceded the fewest goals (32) this season and kept clean sheets in half of their games (19) to finish 12 points clear of second-placed United. Guardiola won the award ahead of fellow nominees Marcelo Bielsa (Leeds United), David Moyes (West Ham United), Brendan Rodgers (Leicester City), and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (Manchester United).

Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named PL Player of Season, Pep Guardiola wins manager's award

Star striker Sergio Aguero is set to join Spanish giants Barcelona on a two-year deal. The Argentine will bid adieu to Manchester City after spending a decade with the club.&nbsp;

Aguero, who is City's all-time top scorer with 260 goals, will leave a huge void after departing. The club's chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has said that the club is ready to spend money to find a replacement for the Argentine.&nbsp;

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"We lose a very important legend in Sergio Aguero," Al Mubarak told the <a href="https://www.mancity.com/news/mens/khaldoon-al-mubarak-transfer-news-man-city-63758173">club website</a> on Tuesday. "They are very hard shoes to fill, but I'm confident that we will find the right player to fill those shoes.

"There are other areas within the group, within the team that obviously need investment. Not too many. It's not about numbers, it's about quality.

"One of the things I've learned over the years is you need to constantly bring in talent into the team, refresh and particularly when you are at a high level and when you're on the top."

Manchester City have had a dominant run in the Premier League in recent years. Under Pep Guardiola, the club has won three league titles in four years. In the recently-concluded season, Man City finished 12 points ahead of second-placed Man Utd.&nbsp;

Al Mubarak said City, who also won the League Cup, will not stand still despite their domestic success.

"Having won the league, it is not the time to sit back and be content. That would be your biggest mistake," Al Mubarak added.

"This is the time to send a strong message, that there's no contentment, that you're not satisfied with just winning the league."

(Inputs from Reuters)

Star striker Sergio Aguero is set to join Spanish giants Barcelona on a two-year deal. The Argentine will bid adieu to Manchester City after spending a decade with the club.

Star striker Sergio Aguero is set to join Spanish giants Barcelona on a two-year deal. The Argentine will bid adieu to Manchester City after spending a decade with the club. Aguero, who is City's all-time top scorer with 260 goals, will leave a huge void after departing. The club's chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has said that the club is ready to spend money to find a replacement for the Argentine. ALSO READ: Football: Chelsea fans in Porto overjoyed after club crowned as European champions! "We lose a very important legend in Sergio Aguero," Al Mubarak told the club website on Tuesday. "They are very hard shoes to fill, but I'm confident that we will find the right player to fill those shoes. "There are other areas within the group, within the team that obviously need investment. Not too many. It's not about numbers, it's about quality. "One of the things I've learned over the years is you need to constantly bring in talent into the team, refresh and particularly when you are at a high level and when you're on the top." Manchester City have had a dominant run in the Premier League in recent years. Under Pep Guardiola, the club has won three league titles in four years. In the recently-concluded season, Man City finished 12 points ahead of second-placed Man Utd. Al Mubarak said City, who also won the League Cup, will not stand still despite their domestic success. "Having won the league, it is not the time to sit back and be content. That would be your biggest mistake," Al Mubarak added. "This is the time to send a strong message, that there's no contentment, that you're not satisfied with just winning the league." (Inputs from Reuters)

Football- 'Need investment': Man City chairman on finding Sergio Aguero's replacement

Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has been nominated for the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) men's Player of the Year as well as the Young Player of the Year award, the organisation said on Wednesday.

Foden, 21, has made 50 appearances for City across all competitions this season, helping Pep Guardiola's side to win the Premier League and League Cup while they also reached the Champions League final where they finished runners-up.

City dominate the six-man shortlist, with last year's winner Kevin de Bruyne, Ruben Dias and Ilkay Gundogan also in contention.

Manchester United midfielder and top goal-scorer Bruno Fernandes plus Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane, who topped the league with 23 goals and 14 assists, complete the list of nominees.

The shortlist for the Young Player of the Year award comprises six England internationals.

Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka and City's Foden are all in Gareth Southgate's squad for Euro 2020.

Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood, who pulled out of the England squad with injury, also made the list.

Chelsea trio Sam Kerr, Fran Kirby and Ann-Katrin Berger are on the shortlist for the women's Player of the Year award, along with City's Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly and Sam Mewis.

Hemp is also in contention for the women's Young Player of the Year award, with team mate Ellie Roebuck.

Manchester United duo Ella Toone and Lauren James, Chelsea's Niamh Charles, and Ebony Salmon of Racing Louisville, formerly of Bristol City, complete the list of nominees.

The winners will be announced on Sunday.

Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has been nominated for the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) men's Player of the Year as well as the Young Player of the Year award, the organisation said on Wednesday.

Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has been nominated for the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) men's Player of the Year as well as the Young Player of the Year award, the organisation said on Wednesday. Foden, 21, has made 50 appearances for City across all competitions this season, helping Pep Guardiola's side to win the Premier League and League Cup while they also reached the Champions League final where they finished runners-up. City dominate the six-man shortlist, with last year's winner Kevin de Bruyne, Ruben Dias and Ilkay Gundogan also in contention. Manchester United midfielder and top goal-scorer Bruno Fernandes plus Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane, who topped the league with 23 goals and 14 assists, complete the list of nominees. The shortlist for the Young Player of the Year award comprises six England internationals. Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka and City's Foden are all in Gareth Southgate's squad for Euro 2020. Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood, who pulled out of the England squad with injury, also made the list. Chelsea trio Sam Kerr, Fran Kirby and Ann-Katrin Berger are on the shortlist for the women's Player of the Year award, along with City's Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly and Sam Mewis. Hemp is also in contention for the women's Young Player of the Year award, with team mate Ellie Roebuck. Manchester United duo Ella Toone and Lauren James, Chelsea's Niamh Charles, and Ebony Salmon of Racing Louisville, formerly of Bristol City, complete the list of nominees. The winners will be announced on Sunday.

Football: Foden up for two PFA awards as Manchester City dominate shortlists

Chelsea fans piled into the streets surrounding the Stamford Bridge ground of the new kings of European football following their 1-0 defeat of Manchester City in the Champions League final on Saturday in Portugal.

Some lit flares as they sang and cheered the club's triumph earned thanks to Kai Havertz's first-half goal in Porto.

The goal from the club's most expensive ever signing gave the Russian-owned club their second European crown nine years after the first in 2012.

Coronavirus restrictions meant far fewer Chelsea supporters were able to attend Saturday's clash compared to the night they beat Bayern Munich.

Many of those who could not be there congregated in the fashionable west London neighbourhood, near the stadium where the same supporters had gathered for an angry protest against Chelsea's shortlived membership of the European Super League in April.

A light show in the club's blue spelled out "Champions for the Fans" as fireworks went off in the distance.

The fans' joyous celebrations, standing shoulder to shoulder in the streets, showed a complete disregard for the present social distancing advice in England that groups of no more than 30 can congregate. &nbsp;

Some climbed up to balconies of houses raising their arms in triumph -- several whipping off their shirts to celebrate half naked on a warm night.

Other Chelsea fans watching the game on giant screens at the Boxpark entertainment complex in Croydon, south of London, erupted in cheers at the final whistle.

"I'm ecstatic. It's amazing, this is something I've felt before, a long time ago, but to re-live it is mad. I'm really happy, I can't believe it," said landscape gardener Aaron Cheneoy, 36.

"Why do we think we've won it? Because we're the best team in Europe! I mean, look what's happened this season, this is the third time we've beaten City," said Bradley Smith, a 25-year-old consultant.

In northwest England, many Manchester City fans congregated in the Townley Pub in the city and experienced a wave of emotions as their team fell short of becoming European champions for the first time.

They drowned their sorrows but with the consolation that Pep Guardiola's team ended the season as runaway Premier League champions and retained the League Cup.

The City fans' emotions went from despair when Havertz scored to anger and despair at the early departure of influential midfielder Kevin De Bruyne after a shuddering clash with Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger.

At the final whistle, the sky blue-clad fans began chanting defiantly.

"Well, I'm not impressed, but I'm not going to slate my team because at the end of the day, we win everything," one fan said, and couldn't resist a jibe at their city rivals Manchester United.

"Manchester’s still blue, if you don't like it oo…oo."

Chelsea fans piled into the streets surrounding the Stamford Bridge ground of the new kings of European football following their 1-0 defeat of Manchester City in the Champions League final on Saturday in Portugal.

Chelsea fans piled into the streets surrounding the Stamford Bridge ground of the new kings of European football following their 1-0 defeat of Manchester City in the Champions League final on Saturday in Portugal. Some lit flares as they sang and cheered the club's triumph earned thanks to Kai Havertz's first-half goal in Porto. The goal from the club's most expensive ever signing gave the Russian-owned club their second European crown nine years after the first in 2012. Coronavirus restrictions meant far fewer Chelsea supporters were able to attend Saturday's clash compared to the night they beat Bayern Munich. Many of those who could not be there congregated in the fashionable west London neighbourhood, near the stadium where the same supporters had gathered for an angry protest against Chelsea's shortlived membership of the European Super League in April. A light show in the club's blue spelled out "Champions for the Fans" as fireworks went off in the distance. The fans' joyous celebrations, standing shoulder to shoulder in the streets, showed a complete disregard for the present social distancing advice in England that groups of no more than 30 can congregate. Some climbed up to balconies of houses raising their arms in triumph -- several whipping off their shirts to celebrate half naked on a warm night. Other Chelsea fans watching the game on giant screens at the Boxpark entertainment complex in Croydon, south of London, erupted in cheers at the final whistle. "I'm ecstatic. It's amazing, this is something I've felt before, a long time ago, but to re-live it is mad. I'm really happy, I can't believe it," said landscape gardener Aaron Cheneoy, 36. "Why do we think we've won it? Because we're the best team in Europe! I mean, look what's happened this season, this is the third time we've beaten City," said Bradley Smith, a 25-year-old consultant. In northwest England, many Manchester City fans congregated in the Townley Pub in the city and experienced a wave of emotions as their team fell short of becoming European champions for the first time. They drowned their sorrows but with the consolation that Pep Guardiola's team ended the season as runaway Premier League champions and retained the League Cup. The City fans' emotions went from despair when Havertz scored to anger and despair at the early departure of influential midfielder Kevin De Bruyne after a shuddering clash with Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger. At the final whistle, the sky blue-clad fans began chanting defiantly. "Well, I'm not impressed, but I'm not going to slate my team because at the end of the day, we win everything," one fan said, and couldn't resist a jibe at their city rivals Manchester United. "Manchester’s still blue, if you don't like it oo…oo."

Kai's the limit as Chelsea fans revel in Champions League glory

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said their season remained an exceptional one despite the campaign ending in disappointment with a 1-0 loss to&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;in Saturday's Champions League final.

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City clinched a fifth Premier League title in the last 10 years with ease this season, Guardiola's third domestic crown since arriving at the club, but the Champions League continues to remain elusive after Kai Havertz's winning goal for&nbsp;Chelsea.

It was City's first appearance in the final of Europe's elite club competition but they ultimately came up short, but Guardiola was still happy with his side's work this term.

"I would like to say it was an exceptional season for us," said the Spaniard. "It was a dream for us to be here, unfortunately we could not win.

"For most of us in this club it is the first time here, but we work to come back one day.

"It was a tough season in the pandemic, but we learn from this for the future. I have incredible respect for the players, they gave everything, but we will come back stronger. I want to congratulate them for their exceptional season."

Guardiola has won two Champions League titles as a manager, both with Barcelona, but none since 2011, and was again unable to bring City their first European Cup.

City, who won the League Cup as well as the Premier League title, have been relentless at times this season, but on their big night they could only muster one shot on target all match.

"It was a tight game and we had some chances, but against the defensive structure of&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;it is not easy," Guardiola said.

"We struggled with long balls and second balls. In that moment you need the inspiration and quality, there were three or four moments that were close but didn't arrive.

"We played in the Champions League final, we won the Premier League again and competed well all season. Now, I want to go home with my family I have not seen for a long time, take a break, and start working on how to approach next season."

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said their season remained an exceptional one despite the campaign ending in disappointment with a 1-0 loss to Chelsea in Saturday's Champions League final.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said their season remained an exceptional one despite the campaign ending in disappointment with a 1-0 loss to Chelsea in Saturday's Champions League final. ALSO READ: Chelsea fans overjoyed after club crowned as European champions City clinched a fifth Premier League title in the last 10 years with ease this season, Guardiola's third domestic crown since arriving at the club, but the Champions League continues to remain elusive after Kai Havertz's winning goal for Chelsea. It was City's first appearance in the final of Europe's elite club competition but they ultimately came up short, but Guardiola was still happy with his side's work this term. "I would like to say it was an exceptional season for us," said the Spaniard. "It was a dream for us to be here, unfortunately we could not win. "For most of us in this club it is the first time here, but we work to come back one day. "It was a tough season in the pandemic, but we learn from this for the future. I have incredible respect for the players, they gave everything, but we will come back stronger. I want to congratulate them for their exceptional season." Guardiola has won two Champions League titles as a manager, both with Barcelona, but none since 2011, and was again unable to bring City their first European Cup. City, who won the League Cup as well as the Premier League title, have been relentless at times this season, but on their big night they could only muster one shot on target all match. "It was a tight game and we had some chances, but against the defensive structure of Chelsea it is not easy," Guardiola said. "We struggled with long balls and second balls. In that moment you need the inspiration and quality, there were three or four moments that were close but didn't arrive. "We played in the Champions League final, we won the Premier League again and competed well all season. Now, I want to go home with my family I have not seen for a long time, take a break, and start working on how to approach next season."

Football: Manchester City's season still exceptional despite final loss, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City will take on Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League finale on Saturday night. The two Premier League sides will secure horns in the final match of the European football schedule at the Estadio do Dragao in Porto.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-finals-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-manchester-city-vs-chelsea-388261" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League finals, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Manchester City vs Chelsea?</a>

Manchester City has had a staggering campaign under Pep Guardiola this year and will be hoping to guarantee a treble of English League Cup, Premier League, and UEFA Champions League prizes.&nbsp;

Chelsea, then again, have been a changed side since the time Thomas Tuchel was appointed. He has made the team look very difficult to beat and has effectively beaten Pep Guardiola's side in the FA Cup just as the Premier League.

<h2>Head to Head</h2>

Chelsea have a great record against Manchester City and have won 70 matches out of an aggregate of 168 games played between the two groups. Manchester City have overseen 59 triumphs against Chelsea and have a highlight demonstrate in this apparatus.&nbsp;

The past gathering between the two groups occurred in the Premier League recently and finished in a 2-1 triumph for Chelsea. The Blues additionally unloaded Manchester City out of the FA Cup this year and will need a comparable outcome this end of the week.

<h2>Manchester City</h2>

Heading into this great clash, Manchester City has no concerns over any injuries, which means Pep Guardiola can call upon all his players for the finale in Porto. He didn't pivot vigorously during the last match of the season against Everton, which they won 5-0 and there are probably not going to roll out a lot of changes to the side that ventured out to challenge Everton.&nbsp;

Ederson Moraes, who won the Premier League Golden Glove for 2020/21, is a conviction to include between the sticks while the unshakable association of John Stones and Ruben Dias picks itself at the core of the Manchester City defense.

Kevin De Bruyne is a cirtitude to feature. Ilkay Gundogan ought to involve the third midfield opening. Riyad Mahrez is made sure about to begin the conservative while Phil Foden ought to get approval on the left given his form.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola has regularly liked to work without a characteristic striker and could follow a comparable methodology on Saturday with Bernardo Silva starting as the false-nine or even Kevin De Bruyne, with the Portuguese moving into midfield. Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus will be alternatives from the bench.

Manchester City (4-3-3) - Probable Starting XI: Ederson Moraes; Kyle Walker, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Oleksandr Zinchenko; Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva; Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, Riyad Mahrez.

<h2>Chelsea&nbsp;</h2>

Chelsea had been perspiring over the fitness of Edouard Mendy and N'Golo Kante heading into the finale. Be that as it may, a lot to Thomas Tuchel's alleviation, the team is fit and accessible for determination for the Champions League final, which will be a significant boost to their chances.&nbsp;

Edouard Mendy has been a solid presence between the sticks and has added some truly necessary soundness to what exactly was a delicate Chelsea backline before his appearance. He has maintained nine clean sheets in 11 UEFA Champions League appearances for the Blues this season.

With N'Golo Kante fit and accessible, he turns into an obvious choice in the starting XI, with his energy and guarded nous set to come very helpful for Chelsea in their endeavors to stop City. He will be upheld by Jorginho, with Mateo Kovacic offering an alternative from the bench. Ben Chilwell is an assurance to highlight out on the left side in front of Marcos Alonso and Emerson Palmieri.

Mason Mount is an ensured starter in one of the two attacking midfield positions. For the subsequent spot, Hakim Ziyech could get approval in spite of him not being a starter of late.&nbsp;

Timo Werner will very likely lead the line for Chelsea, yet it stays not yet clear who accomplices him forthright.

Chelsea (3-4-2-1) - Probable Starting XI: Edouard Mendy; Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta; Ben Chilwell, Reece James, Jorginho, N'Golo Kante; Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic, Timo Werner.&nbsp;

<h2>Five Players to watch out for</h2>

The two groups brag plenty of stars in their positions. On that note, here are five players to watch out for in the 2021 UEFA Champions League finale.&nbsp;

A game of this size with two groups brimming with a-list players implies there are various decisions for this segment. The clash of the Englishmen in Mason Mount versus Phil Foden makes certain to energize individuals. Phil Foden's fleeting ascent at Manchester City is very much recorded. At only 21 years old, the player has effectively settled himself among the absolute best in the business. Chelsea's player of the season, Mason Mount, was their champion entertainer in the Premier League. So the Blues will look to him to convey in the greatest round of their season.&nbsp;

<img alt="cc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8aa583c-5ef4-48a9-b828-c579233d3848" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-05-29T192131.529_0.jpg" />

It will likewise be Sergio Aguero's last game in Manchester City tones, making him another player to watch out for. He has a wonderful record against Chelsea, scoring 15 goals in 22 games, the joint-most he has overseen against a solitary adversary.&nbsp; 
N'Golo Kante's ball-winning capacity is great, while his passes are exact, credits that charm him to any manager. He unquestionably will be a player to keep an eye out for.&nbsp;

<img alt="xxcc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30d3c1cb-0f84-4820-a920-717d114a0b5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png" />

Kevin De Bruyne is the fundamental man to keep an eye out for in this challenge on Saturday. He has a great technique, has an amazing passing ability, and his hold-up play is top-notch. Manchester City will seek De Bruyne for motivation against Chelsea.

Considering it’s a finale and a lot is at stake this match between Manchester City and Chelsea should be a cracking contest.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Manchester City will take on Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League finale on Saturday night. The two Premier League sides will secure horns in the final match of the European football schedule at the Estadio do Dragao in Porto.

Manchester City will take on Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League finale on Saturday night. The two Premier League sides will secure horns in the final match of the European football schedule at the Estadio do Dragao in Porto. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League finals, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Manchester City vs Chelsea? Manchester City has had a staggering campaign under Pep Guardiola this year and will be hoping to guarantee a treble of English League Cup, Premier League, and UEFA Champions League prizes. Chelsea, then again, have been a changed side since the time Thomas Tuchel was appointed. He has made the team look very difficult to beat and has effectively beaten Pep Guardiola's side in the FA Cup just as the Premier League. Head to Head Chelsea have a great record against Manchester City and have won 70 matches out of an aggregate of 168 games played between the two groups. Manchester City have overseen 59 triumphs against Chelsea and have a highlight demonstrate in this apparatus. The past gathering between the two groups occurred in the Premier League recently and finished in a 2-1 triumph for Chelsea. The Blues additionally unloaded Manchester City out of the FA Cup this year and will need a comparable outcome this end of the week. Manchester City Heading into this great clash, Manchester City has no concerns over any injuries, which means Pep Guardiola can call upon all his players for the finale in Porto. He didn't pivot vigorously during the last match of the season against Everton, which they won 5-0 and there are probably not going to roll out a lot of changes to the side that ventured out to challenge Everton. Ederson Moraes, who won the Premier League Golden Glove for 2020/21, is a conviction to include between the sticks while the unshakable association of John Stones and Ruben Dias picks itself at the core of the Manchester City defense. Kevin De Bruyne is a cirtitude to feature. Ilkay Gundogan ought to involve the third midfield opening. Riyad Mahrez is made sure about to begin the conservative while Phil Foden ought to get approval on the left given his form. Pep Guardiola has regularly liked to work without a characteristic striker and could follow a comparable methodology on Saturday with Bernardo Silva starting as the false-nine or even Kevin De Bruyne, with the Portuguese moving into midfield. Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus will be alternatives from the bench. Manchester City (4-3-3) - Probable Starting XI: Ederson Moraes; Kyle Walker, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Oleksandr Zinchenko; Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva; Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, Riyad Mahrez. Chelsea Chelsea had been perspiring over the fitness of Edouard Mendy and N'Golo Kante heading into the finale. Be that as it may, a lot to Thomas Tuchel's alleviation, the team is fit and accessible for determination for the Champions League final, which will be a significant boost to their chances. Edouard Mendy has been a solid presence between the sticks and has added some truly necessary soundness to what exactly was a delicate Chelsea backline before his appearance. He has maintained nine clean sheets in 11 UEFA Champions League appearances for the Blues this season. With N'Golo Kante fit and accessible, he turns into an obvious choice in the starting XI, with his energy and guarded nous set to come very helpful for Chelsea in their endeavors to stop City. He will be upheld by Jorginho, with Mateo Kovacic offering an alternative from the bench. Ben Chilwell is an assurance to highlight out on the left side in front of Marcos Alonso and Emerson Palmieri. Mason Mount is an ensured starter in one of the two attacking midfield positions. For the subsequent spot, Hakim Ziyech could get approval in spite of him not being a starter of late. Timo Werner will very likely lead the line for Chelsea, yet it stays not yet clear who accomplices him forthright. Chelsea (3-4-2-1) - Probable Starting XI: Edouard Mendy; Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta; Ben Chilwell, Reece James, Jorginho, N'Golo Kante; Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic, Timo Werner. Five Players to watch out for The two groups brag plenty of stars in their positions. On that note, here are five players to watch out for in the 2021 UEFA Champions League finale. A game of this size with two groups brimming with a-list players implies there are various decisions for this segment. The clash of the Englishmen in Mason Mount versus Phil Foden makes certain to energize individuals. Phil Foden's fleeting ascent at Manchester City is very much recorded. At only 21 years old, the player has effectively settled himself among the absolute best in the business. Chelsea's player of the season, Mason Mount, was their champion entertainer in the Premier League. So the Blues will look to him to convey in the greatest round of their season. It will likewise be Sergio Aguero's last game in Manchester City tones, making him another player to watch out for. He has a wonderful record against Chelsea, scoring 15 goals in 22 games, the joint-most he has overseen against a solitary adversary. N'Golo Kante's ball-winning capacity is great, while his passes are exact, credits that charm him to any manager. He unquestionably will be a player to keep an eye out for. Kevin De Bruyne is the fundamental man to keep an eye out for in this challenge on Saturday. He has a great technique, has an amazing passing ability, and his hold-up play is top-notch. Manchester City will seek De Bruyne for motivation against Chelsea. Considering it’s a finale and a lot is at stake this match between Manchester City and Chelsea should be a cracking contest.

Man City vs Chelsea, Preview: Stats & star players, a brief look ahead of Champions League showdown

Victory for Manchester City over Chelsea in the Champions League final in Porto on Saturday could have an impact well beyond sporting pride.

The first-ever title in Europe's premier club competition would complete City's rise from Manchester's "second club" to England's top team and experts believe that could be the missing element in creating a truly global brand.

"The biggest trophy in club&nbsp;football&nbsp;is the Champions League and winning that would certainly have an impact on their brand, that is why you see clubs chasing it so hard, like Paris St Germain," says Hugo Hensley, head of sports services at Brand Finance.

PSG fell at the final hurdle last season, losing to Bayern Munich, leaving their Qatari owners still searching for that defining trophy that seals status in the game's elite.

Unlike PSG, City has had to compete with one of the game's biggest name clubs being just down the road.

When billionaire Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan bought the club in 2008, there was no doubting he had invested in the second club in the city.

Manchester United was not just the most successful team in England they were a global brand attracting fans from across the world.

United had everything needed for&nbsp;football&nbsp;and commercial success - one of the game's top managers in Alex Ferguson, world-class players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and a brand already rooted in success was glowing from a third European Cup/Champions League triumph.

City&nbsp;had a tradition of their own - they were one of England's top teams in the late 1960's - but as recently as nine years before the Abu Dhabi group took control, they had been languishing in the third tier.

On the field, things have changed dramatically.

While United has struggled for success since Ferguson's departure in 2013, City have won five of the last nine Premier League titles, including three of the last four.

In Pep Guardiola, the club has a manager widely viewed as the most innovative and effective in the game and they have a team packed with international talent, producing entertaining&nbsp;football.

That is all more than enough for the club's supporters of course, who know they are now the top dogs in their city and in the country.

But when it comes to being a global brand and international business, United still feature above City in most evaluations.

In terms of financial value, the Forbes and Deloitte rankings, place United fourth in the world and City sixth.

When it comes to the broader, brand value, the calculations from Brand Finance place United third and City fourth - Spain's Real Madrid and Barcelona are in top spots.

As United fans would be quick to point out, while they have won the European Cup/Champions League three times City have never been European champions.

The only triumph for the Sky Blues in the continental competition came in the now-defunct UEFA Cup Winners' Cup 51 years ago.

"The peripheral fan who maybe only watches the Champions League latter stages, is going to be exposed to Manchester City, it brings a greater exposure to that wider audience," says Hensley.

"In terms of building the value of the brand, what that does for them is, it can increase their ability to sell sponsorship contracts, get sponsorships in more categories, and then build more loyalty among those sponsors, which is what that really branded aspect of the business is about," he said.

United still generates around £100 million more than City in annual revenue and they would also point to a greater global digital reach which increasingly drives their sponsorship deals.

A Champions League triumph for City would come at a bad time for United whose American owners, the Glazer family, are facing protests from some fan groups while the team is smarting from losing the Europa League final to Spain's Villarreal on Wednesday.

Victory in Porto might not catapult City above United in financial and brand terms but it would certainly move them much closer.

"It will help them close the financial gap. In terms of global branding they are still some distance behind United, Madrid, Barca, Bayern, Juventus, and, probably, Liverpool," says&nbsp;football&nbsp;finance analyst Rob Wilson of Sheffield Hallam University.

"They have too little history but they are certainly on an upward curve - and a Champions League win will undoubtedly accelerate things".

Victory for Manchester City over Chelsea in the Champions League final in Porto on Saturday could have an impact well beyond sporting pride. The first-ever title in Europe's premier club competition would complete City's rise from Manchester's "second club" to England's top team and experts believe that could be the missing element in creating a truly global brand.

Victory for Manchester City over Chelsea in the Champions League final in Porto on Saturday could have an impact well beyond sporting pride. The first-ever title in Europe's premier club competition would complete City's rise from Manchester's "second club" to England's top team and experts believe that could be the missing element in creating a truly global brand. "The biggest trophy in club football is the Champions League and winning that would certainly have an impact on their brand, that is why you see clubs chasing it so hard, like Paris St Germain," says Hugo Hensley, head of sports services at Brand Finance. PSG fell at the final hurdle last season, losing to Bayern Munich, leaving their Qatari owners still searching for that defining trophy that seals status in the game's elite. Unlike PSG, City has had to compete with one of the game's biggest name clubs being just down the road. When billionaire Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan bought the club in 2008, there was no doubting he had invested in the second club in the city. Manchester United was not just the most successful team in England they were a global brand attracting fans from across the world. United had everything needed for football and commercial success - one of the game's top managers in Alex Ferguson, world-class players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and a brand already rooted in success was glowing from a third European Cup/Champions League triumph. City had a tradition of their own - they were one of England's top teams in the late 1960's - but as recently as nine years before the Abu Dhabi group took control, they had been languishing in the third tier. On the field, things have changed dramatically. While United has struggled for success since Ferguson's departure in 2013, City have won five of the last nine Premier League titles, including three of the last four. In Pep Guardiola, the club has a manager widely viewed as the most innovative and effective in the game and they have a team packed with international talent, producing entertaining football. That is all more than enough for the club's supporters of course, who know they are now the top dogs in their city and in the country. But when it comes to being a global brand and international business, United still feature above City in most evaluations. In terms of financial value, the Forbes and Deloitte rankings, place United fourth in the world and City sixth. When it comes to the broader, brand value, the calculations from Brand Finance place United third and City fourth - Spain's Real Madrid and Barcelona are in top spots. As United fans would be quick to point out, while they have won the European Cup/Champions League three times City have never been European champions. The only triumph for the Sky Blues in the continental competition came in the now-defunct UEFA Cup Winners' Cup 51 years ago. "The peripheral fan who maybe only watches the Champions League latter stages, is going to be exposed to Manchester City, it brings a greater exposure to that wider audience," says Hensley. "In terms of building the value of the brand, what that does for them is, it can increase their ability to sell sponsorship contracts, get sponsorships in more categories, and then build more loyalty among those sponsors, which is what that really branded aspect of the business is about," he said. United still generates around £100 million more than City in annual revenue and they would also point to a greater global digital reach which increasingly drives their sponsorship deals. A Champions League triumph for City would come at a bad time for United whose American owners, the Glazer family, are facing protests from some fan groups while the team is smarting from losing the Europa League final to Spain's Villarreal on Wednesday. Victory in Porto might not catapult City above United in financial and brand terms but it would certainly move them much closer. "It will help them close the financial gap. In terms of global branding they are still some distance behind United, Madrid, Barca, Bayern, Juventus, and, probably, Liverpool," says football finance analyst Rob Wilson of Sheffield Hallam University. "They have too little history but they are certainly on an upward curve - and a Champions League win will undoubtedly accelerate things".

Football: Champions League win would boost City's bid to match Manchester United as global brand

A decade on from when he last lifted the Champions League trophy, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is once again in the final and is looking to back up his claim to being the greatest coach football has ever seen.

Victory over Chelsea in Porto would take Guardiola level with Zinedine Zidane, Carlo Ancelotti and Bob Paisley as the only men to win three European Cups as coach.

The 50-year-old's record in 12 seasons at Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City speaks for itself. Among his 26 major trophies are nine league titles, three in each of Spain, Germany, England, and nine domestic cups.

At his boyhood club Barca he also conquered the Champions League in two of his first three seasons.

But since masterminding one of the greatest ever performances in a European final to sweep aside Manchester United 3-1 at Wembley in 2011, Europe's top club competition has been the one blot on Guardiola's record.

Newly-crowned European champions Bayern expected a dynasty when the Catalan arrived in Bavaria fresh from a year's sabbatical in 2013. Instead, Guardiola's Bayern suffered semi-final heartache to Spanish opposition in each of his three seasons in charge.

City's determination to create the perfect project to lure him to Manchester by appointing his former colleagues at Barcelona, Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano, to top jobs at the Etihad Stadium has been fully vindicated with three Premier League titles in the past four years.

"They have an incredible squad and the best manager in the world and that makes it a good recipe," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after City dethroned his side as English champions.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is also a Guardiola disciple, labelling City "the benchmark" for the Blues to aim for.

Guardiola has been so revered because he brings a style to go with the substance of hoarding trophies.

"He's had, arguably, the most positive influence of anyone, ever on our game," said former England striker Gary Lineker on how Guardiola has shaped a change of style in English football more reliant on technique than tenacity.

<h2>- Overthinking -</h2>

Yet the Champions League continued to bring out the worst in Guardiola as persistent tinkering and surprise team selections saw him labelled as a coach guilty of overthinking a series of knockout ties.

City did not even make it beyond the quarter-finals in his first four seasons in charge as a combination of wasteful finishing, defensive errors and controversial refereeing calls repeatedly combined to cost them.

That has all changed this season with the signing of Portuguese centre-back Ruben Dias helping City to boast the tightest defence in the Champions League, while Guardiola's use of a system without a natural striker has not stopped City scoring four goals in each of their knockout ties against Borussia Monchengladbach, Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.

"We are quite a similar team from in the past when we were out," said Guardiola this week. "The margins are little details. This year it fell on our side when for many years it was the opposite.

"Now we are quite satisfied to get to the final but we know if you don't have a huge desire to win it, a huge desire to know what we have to do, it will not be possible to win the game, to win the Champions League."

Winning the Champions League has been the long-term goal for City's Abu Dhabi owners since Sheikh Mansour's takeover transformed the club 13 years ago.

In their 10th season in the competition, City have finally made it to the final. A decade of disappointment for both the the club and their manager will be quickly forgotten if they make history on Saturday.

A decade on from when he last lifted the Champions League trophy, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is once again in the final and is looking to back up his claim to being the greatest coach football has ever seen.

A decade on from when he last lifted the Champions League trophy, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is once again in the final and is looking to back up his claim to being the greatest coach football has ever seen. Victory over Chelsea in Porto would take Guardiola level with Zinedine Zidane, Carlo Ancelotti and Bob Paisley as the only men to win three European Cups as coach. The 50-year-old's record in 12 seasons at Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City speaks for itself. Among his 26 major trophies are nine league titles, three in each of Spain, Germany, England, and nine domestic cups. At his boyhood club Barca he also conquered the Champions League in two of his first three seasons. But since masterminding one of the greatest ever performances in a European final to sweep aside Manchester United 3-1 at Wembley in 2011, Europe's top club competition has been the one blot on Guardiola's record. Newly-crowned European champions Bayern expected a dynasty when the Catalan arrived in Bavaria fresh from a year's sabbatical in 2013. Instead, Guardiola's Bayern suffered semi-final heartache to Spanish opposition in each of his three seasons in charge. City's determination to create the perfect project to lure him to Manchester by appointing his former colleagues at Barcelona, Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano, to top jobs at the Etihad Stadium has been fully vindicated with three Premier League titles in the past four years. "They have an incredible squad and the best manager in the world and that makes it a good recipe," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after City dethroned his side as English champions. Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is also a Guardiola disciple, labelling City "the benchmark" for the Blues to aim for. Guardiola has been so revered because he brings a style to go with the substance of hoarding trophies. "He's had, arguably, the most positive influence of anyone, ever on our game," said former England striker Gary Lineker on how Guardiola has shaped a change of style in English football more reliant on technique than tenacity. - Overthinking - Yet the Champions League continued to bring out the worst in Guardiola as persistent tinkering and surprise team selections saw him labelled as a coach guilty of overthinking a series of knockout ties. City did not even make it beyond the quarter-finals in his first four seasons in charge as a combination of wasteful finishing, defensive errors and controversial refereeing calls repeatedly combined to cost them. That has all changed this season with the signing of Portuguese centre-back Ruben Dias helping City to boast the tightest defence in the Champions League, while Guardiola's use of a system without a natural striker has not stopped City scoring four goals in each of their knockout ties against Borussia Monchengladbach, Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain. "We are quite a similar team from in the past when we were out," said Guardiola this week. "The margins are little details. This year it fell on our side when for many years it was the opposite. "Now we are quite satisfied to get to the final but we know if you don't have a huge desire to win it, a huge desire to know what we have to do, it will not be possible to win the game, to win the Champions League." Winning the Champions League has been the long-term goal for City's Abu Dhabi owners since Sheikh Mansour's takeover transformed the club 13 years ago. In their 10th season in the competition, City have finally made it to the final. A decade of disappointment for both the the club and their manager will be quickly forgotten if they make history on Saturday.

Football: Guardiola on the brink of exorcising Champions League demons

Phil Foden already has eight major trophies to his name before his 21st birthday on Friday. The following day he may have the perfect present in Manchester City's first Champions League crown.

Born and raised in Stockport, just six miles (10 kilometres) from the club's Etihad Stadium, Foden is the homegrown hero among a star-studded international squad bankrolled by the Abu Dhabi owners.

The club that he first started training with as a six-year-old was very different. City had only recently returned to the Premier League after at one stage slipping down to English football's third tier.

"We had limited money, limited resources and we invested in people," City's former academy manager Jim Cassell told AFP ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto.

Manchester United were used to having their pick of local talent, while City also had to fend off interest from Liverpool and Everton for a precocious talent nicknamed the "Stockport Iniesta" for his similarity to the wiry but silky former Barcelona and Spain midfielder, Andres Iniesta.

"Philip just looked different, he looked special," Cassell continued.&nbsp;

"He always had magnificent agility and balance. That's what made him special -- he used to manipulate the ball without touching it because of the way his body was."

The earliest City could officially register Foden was at under-nine level, but he continued to play for his local team, Reddish Vulcans, to foster his competitive spirit.

"We had a very challenging culture," Cassell said. "I've heard people say 'let them play, don't look at results', but when do you turn on the tap to be a winner?&nbsp;

"I don't go along with this 'don't worry about results'. We're in an elite programme. Elite is about being the best, it's about challenging yourself to be the best."

Foden's talent stood out, even to someone used to seeing the best young prospects in the world.&nbsp;

"You are the lucky guys who saw the first game, for the first team for Manchester City, of this guy," City manager Pep Guardiola told reporters after Foden made his debut as a 17-year-old in a pre-season friendly against United in Houston.

<h2>'Game changer'&nbsp;</h2>

Later that year he scored twice in the final of the Under-17 World Cup and was named player of the tournament as England triumphed in India.

Despite media clamour for Foden to play more at City as a teenager or go out on loan, Guardiola has bided his time, gradually increasing his minutes over the past three years.

This season he has established himself as a regular starter, scoring 16 goals and even displacing Raheem Sterling for the latter stages of the Champions League.

"Pep's seen something in him that we did as a six-year-old and he has managed him brilliantly," said Cassell.

"Everybody has been sat on their settees telling Pep Guardiola, 'Phil needs to play more, he needs to go out on loan'. Pep was strong, he stuck with it, he knew what he had and I think we all believe we've probably got a real superstar on our hands at Manchester City."

Off the field, Foden does not carry himself with superstar swagger.

Far from the glitz and glamour enjoyed by some Premier League stars, Foden spends his free time fishing with his Manchester United-supporting father, Phil senior.

"When people find out they say: ‘What a weird sport to enjoy’. They don’t understand," Foden told the City website on his teammates' reaction to his fondness for fishing.

“I think it’s really good after games when you have to rest your legs and I just find it really enjoyable."

But his talent has earned him great respect among his seniors in the City dressing room.

"Phil has become one of our main players. He improved in so many aspects of his game, mainly in taking the right decisions in crucial times which for such a young age is really impressive," said Ilkay Gundogan.

"He's one of the game changers for us and he can be one on Saturday."

Phil Foden already has eight major trophies to his name before his 21st birthday on Friday. The following day he may have the perfect present in Manchester City's first Champions League crown.

Phil Foden already has eight major trophies to his name before his 21st birthday on Friday. The following day he may have the perfect present in Manchester City's first Champions League crown. Born and raised in Stockport, just six miles (10 kilometres) from the club's Etihad Stadium, Foden is the homegrown hero among a star-studded international squad bankrolled by the Abu Dhabi owners. The club that he first started training with as a six-year-old was very different. City had only recently returned to the Premier League after at one stage slipping down to English football's third tier. "We had limited money, limited resources and we invested in people," City's former academy manager Jim Cassell told AFP ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto. Manchester United were used to having their pick of local talent, while City also had to fend off interest from Liverpool and Everton for a precocious talent nicknamed the "Stockport Iniesta" for his similarity to the wiry but silky former Barcelona and Spain midfielder, Andres Iniesta. "Philip just looked different, he looked special," Cassell continued. "He always had magnificent agility and balance. That's what made him special -- he used to manipulate the ball without touching it because of the way his body was." The earliest City could officially register Foden was at under-nine level, but he continued to play for his local team, Reddish Vulcans, to foster his competitive spirit. "We had a very challenging culture," Cassell said. "I've heard people say 'let them play, don't look at results', but when do you turn on the tap to be a winner? "I don't go along with this 'don't worry about results'. We're in an elite programme. Elite is about being the best, it's about challenging yourself to be the best." Foden's talent stood out, even to someone used to seeing the best young prospects in the world. "You are the lucky guys who saw the first game, for the first team for Manchester City, of this guy," City manager Pep Guardiola told reporters after Foden made his debut as a 17-year-old in a pre-season friendly against United in Houston. 'Game changer' Later that year he scored twice in the final of the Under-17 World Cup and was named player of the tournament as England triumphed in India. Despite media clamour for Foden to play more at City as a teenager or go out on loan, Guardiola has bided his time, gradually increasing his minutes over the past three years. This season he has established himself as a regular starter, scoring 16 goals and even displacing Raheem Sterling for the latter stages of the Champions League. "Pep's seen something in him that we did as a six-year-old and he has managed him brilliantly," said Cassell. "Everybody has been sat on their settees telling Pep Guardiola, 'Phil needs to play more, he needs to go out on loan'. Pep was strong, he stuck with it, he knew what he had and I think we all believe we've probably got a real superstar on our hands at Manchester City." Off the field, Foden does not carry himself with superstar swagger. Far from the glitz and glamour enjoyed by some Premier League stars, Foden spends his free time fishing with his Manchester United-supporting father, Phil senior. "When people find out they say: ‘What a weird sport to enjoy’. They don’t understand," Foden told the City website on his teammates' reaction to his fondness for fishing. “I think it’s really good after games when you have to rest your legs and I just find it really enjoyable." But his talent has earned him great respect among his seniors in the City dressing room. "Phil has become one of our main players. He improved in so many aspects of his game, mainly in taking the right decisions in crucial times which for such a young age is really impressive," said Ilkay Gundogan. "He's one of the game changers for us and he can be one on Saturday."

'Superstar' Foden formed by love of football and fishing

Manchester City have at last reached the Champions League final after a decade of Abu Dhabi investment, but the global ambitions of the club's owners stretch far beyond England's northwest.

The English champions are the jewel in the crown of the City Football Group (CFG), a network of 10 clubs across five continents from Melbourne to Montevideo.

CFG's stated aim is to become the "first truly global football organisation", putting into place CEO Ferran Soriano's plans for the "Disneyfication" of the football industry.

Pep Guardiola's men can complete a treble if they beat Chelsea in Porto with a fourth consecutive League Cup and fifth Premier League title in 10 years already secured.

But it is not just in Manchester that CFG's investment and expertise is paying off on the pitch.

Formed just seven years ago, Mumbai City became champions of India for the first time this year, while Melbourne City finished top of the regular season table in the A-League.

In Europe, Troyes have been promoted to France's top tier and Girona are on course for a return to La Liga via Spain's second division playoffs.

But success for CFG is not measured purely on results.

"Every club owned by City Football Group has individual objectives because every team is different," Javi Noblega, Montevideo City Torque's business director, told AFP.

"You cannot ask of Montevideo City the same commercial objectives as New York."

The South American clubs, in the Uruguayan capital and Club Bolivar in Bolivia, are used as talent spotters and recruiters.

"The point of the infrastructure is to attract the best young talent in Uruguay and the wider region," added Noblega.

"We're working on other business models that can help us to achieve our objective, which is to attract young players to our academy, to get to the first team with Montevideo City and then sell them to other clubs within the City Football Group or other clubs."

Even if a player never makes the grade to be deemed good enough to grace the Etihad Stadium, player trading can be highly lucrative.

The £10 million ($14 million) sale of former Melbourne City midfielder Aaron Mooy to Huddersfield in 2017 reportedly earned CFG more than they paid to buy their stake in the Australian club.

<h2>- 'Learning from the best' -</h2>

By merging a global brand with interest in local markets, CFG aim grow City's commercial income to the level where they will not be dependent on Abu Dhabi investment to compete financially with traditional giants such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

After CFG bought a stake in Nissan-controlled Yokohama Marinos in 2014, the Japanese car giant agreed a sponsorship deal with all CFG clubs.

"The investment is in every way. Obviously economically, which is very important, but (also) in know-how," said Noblega.

"The communication in the City Football Group is daily, not just in economic terms but in marketing, communication, in sponsorship, in other areas. It's an organisation that is managed very horizontally. We have contact with the most important people in the City Football Group in those areas.

"That makes us feel truly valued... we're learning from the best."

CFG's commercial growth has attracted outside investment. The China Media Capital consortium&nbsp;paid $400 million&nbsp;for a 13 percent stake in 2015 and private equity firm Silver Lake Partners purchased 10 percent for $500 million in 2019, placing a $4.8 billion valuation on the group.

Sheikh Mansour paid just £210 million to take control of the club from former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2008.

Back then, City were not even the big attraction in their own city, with the blue side of Manchester living in the shadow of United.

Come Saturday they could be champions of Europe for the first time with a worldwide fanbase grown from franchises in every corner of the globe.

Manchester City have at last reached the Champions League final after a decade of Abu Dhabi investment, but the global ambitions of the club's owners stretch far beyond England's northwest.

Manchester City have at last reached the Champions League final after a decade of Abu Dhabi investment, but the global ambitions of the club's owners stretch far beyond England's northwest. The English champions are the jewel in the crown of the City Football Group (CFG), a network of 10 clubs across five continents from Melbourne to Montevideo. CFG's stated aim is to become the "first truly global football organisation", putting into place CEO Ferran Soriano's plans for the "Disneyfication" of the football industry. Pep Guardiola's men can complete a treble if they beat Chelsea in Porto with a fourth consecutive League Cup and fifth Premier League title in 10 years already secured. But it is not just in Manchester that CFG's investment and expertise is paying off on the pitch. Formed just seven years ago, Mumbai City became champions of India for the first time this year, while Melbourne City finished top of the regular season table in the A-League. In Europe, Troyes have been promoted to France's top tier and Girona are on course for a return to La Liga via Spain's second division playoffs. But success for CFG is not measured purely on results. "Every club owned by City Football Group has individual objectives because every team is different," Javi Noblega, Montevideo City Torque's business director, told AFP. "You cannot ask of Montevideo City the same commercial objectives as New York." The South American clubs, in the Uruguayan capital and Club Bolivar in Bolivia, are used as talent spotters and recruiters. "The point of the infrastructure is to attract the best young talent in Uruguay and the wider region," added Noblega. "We're working on other business models that can help us to achieve our objective, which is to attract young players to our academy, to get to the first team with Montevideo City and then sell them to other clubs within the City Football Group or other clubs." Even if a player never makes the grade to be deemed good enough to grace the Etihad Stadium, player trading can be highly lucrative. The £10 million ($14 million) sale of former Melbourne City midfielder Aaron Mooy to Huddersfield in 2017 reportedly earned CFG more than they paid to buy their stake in the Australian club. - 'Learning from the best' - By merging a global brand with interest in local markets, CFG aim grow City's commercial income to the level where they will not be dependent on Abu Dhabi investment to compete financially with traditional giants such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona. After CFG bought a stake in Nissan-controlled Yokohama Marinos in 2014, the Japanese car giant agreed a sponsorship deal with all CFG clubs. "The investment is in every way. Obviously economically, which is very important, but (also) in know-how," said Noblega. "The communication in the City Football Group is daily, not just in economic terms but in marketing, communication, in sponsorship, in other areas. It's an organisation that is managed very horizontally. We have contact with the most important people in the City Football Group in those areas. "That makes us feel truly valued... we're learning from the best." CFG's commercial growth has attracted outside investment. The China Media Capital consortium paid $400 million for a 13 percent stake in 2015 and private equity firm Silver Lake Partners purchased 10 percent for $500 million in 2019, placing a $4.8 billion valuation on the group. Sheikh Mansour paid just £210 million to take control of the club from former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2008. Back then, City were not even the big attraction in their own city, with the blue side of Manchester living in the shadow of United. Come Saturday they could be champions of Europe for the first time with a worldwide fanbase grown from franchises in every corner of the globe.

Football: From Manchester to Montevideo - City Football Group targets global domination

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup.

On Saturday, Guardiola and his players will compete in a first Champions League final in the Club’s history. Voted for by fellow managers, it is the second time the City boss has been awarded the prize, having previously done so in recognition of the 2017/18 Centurions season.

Pep Guardiola: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals. “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-from-manchester-to-montevideo-city-football-group-targets-global-domination-387228" hreflang="en">Football: From Manchester to Montevideo - City Football Group targets global domination</a>

“And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise. I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be. “This award is dedicated to and shared with them.”

Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely. To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-manchester-city-fans-take-to-streets-after-premier-league-win-384449" hreflang="en">'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win</a>

“He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know. “And it isn’t just the results - the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup.

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup. On Saturday, Guardiola and his players will compete in a first Champions League final in the Club’s history. Voted for by fellow managers, it is the second time the City boss has been awarded the prize, having previously done so in recognition of the 2017/18 Centurions season. Pep Guardiola: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals. “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced. ALSO READ: Football: From Manchester to Montevideo - City Football Group targets global domination “And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise. I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be. “This award is dedicated to and shared with them.” Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely. To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win “He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know. “And it isn’t just the results - the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”

Football: Pep Guardiola wins LMA Manager of the Year

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months. <o:p></o:p>

Coming off the bench to a rousing reception, Aguero scored twice to break the Premier League record for most goals scored by any player for one club. <o:p></o:p>

With Everton players and staff providing the guard of honour to Aguero and his fellow title-winning teammates before kick-off, the legendary striker received a standing ovation from 10,000 adoring City supporters as he entered the fray for the final time, before the focus shifted to a first-ever Champions League final next weekend. <o:p></o:p>

Earlier this week, the club unveiled a Sergio-inspired mosaic that will mark his outstanding contribution to Manchester City during his 10-year spell, beside a training pitch dedicated to the Argentinean.

<o:p></o:p>

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Walking-off with King Kun one last time 💙 
 
🔷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klD5re">https://t.co/axa0klD5re</a> <a href="https://t.co/oHr73viWYM">pic.twitter.com/oHr73viWYM</a>
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The club had previously revealed that a statue of the City striker has been commissioned to stand alongside those of fellow legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/football-from-messi-to-lewandowski-single-season-top-scorers-in-europes-five-main-leagues-386876" hreflang="en">Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues</a><o:p></o:p>

Aguero sealed his place in the history books at the end of his very first season, when his unforgettable last-gasp winner against Queens Park Rangers clinched the most dramatic title win in Premier League history. His contribution, however, would extend far beyond that extraordinary moment. <o:p></o:p>

15 pieces of domestic silverware would follow during a decade in which Aguero also became the Club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. <o:p></o:p>

A Champions League final awaits next weekend, as the 32-year-old looks to crown his stay with European glory.

<o:p><img alt="Aguero" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb5ba869-5074-4cf4-bcce-9c8f33439eb2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AM2WM.jpg" /></o:p>

A 2014 World Cup finalist, Aguero leaves City with five Premier League medals to his name and as the highest-scoring foreign player ever to feature in the league. His remarkable consistency is reflected by having been named Premier League Player of the Month more than any other player since the inception of the competition [7].

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-city-win-hat-trick-of-premier-league-titles-386911" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles</a><o:p></o:p>

His haul of honours also includes an FA Cup, secured as part of the historic domestic treble winning season of 2018- 19 and six League Cup titles that make him the joint most decorated player in that competition’s history. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Sergio will leave nothing short of an indelible mark on Manchester City Football Club. “His rare blend of exceptional talent and understated humility have not only secured him a place in the history books of English football, but in the hearts of every Manchester City supporter across the world.

“His statue will immortalise that legacy forever and pay tribute to a decade in which very few players across world football had as integral an impact as he had here.”<o:p></o:p>

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months.

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months. Coming off the bench to a rousing reception, Aguero scored twice to break the Premier League record for most goals scored by any player for one club. With Everton players and staff providing the guard of honour to Aguero and his fellow title-winning teammates before kick-off, the legendary striker received a standing ovation from 10,000 adoring City supporters as he entered the fray for the final time, before the focus shifted to a first-ever Champions League final next weekend. Earlier this week, the club unveiled a Sergio-inspired mosaic that will mark his outstanding contribution to Manchester City during his 10-year spell, beside a training pitch dedicated to the Argentinean. Walking-off with King Kun one last time 💙 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/oHr73viWYM — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 23, 2021 × The club had previously revealed that a statue of the City striker has been commissioned to stand alongside those of fellow legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva. ALSO READ: Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues Aguero sealed his place in the history books at the end of his very first season, when his unforgettable last-gasp winner against Queens Park Rangers clinched the most dramatic title win in Premier League history. His contribution, however, would extend far beyond that extraordinary moment. 15 pieces of domestic silverware would follow during a decade in which Aguero also became the Club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. A Champions League final awaits next weekend, as the 32-year-old looks to crown his stay with European glory. A 2014 World Cup finalist, Aguero leaves City with five Premier League medals to his name and as the highest-scoring foreign player ever to feature in the league. His remarkable consistency is reflected by having been named Premier League Player of the Month more than any other player since the inception of the competition [7]. ALSO READ: Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles His haul of honours also includes an FA Cup, secured as part of the historic domestic treble winning season of 2018- 19 and six League Cup titles that make him the joint most decorated player in that competition’s history. Manchester City chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Sergio will leave nothing short of an indelible mark on Manchester City Football Club. “His rare blend of exceptional talent and understated humility have not only secured him a place in the history books of English football, but in the hearts of every Manchester City supporter across the world. “His statue will immortalise that legacy forever and pay tribute to a decade in which very few players across world football had as integral an impact as he had here.”

Football: Record-breaking Sergio Aguero bids farewell to Etihad Stadium in style

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season.

Liverpool and Manchester United look capable of pushing the champions, while Chelsea should be in the mix after Thomas Tuchel's impressive impact on the Champions League finalists.

AFP Sport looks at how the four leading title contenders will shape up:

<h2>Manchester City</h2>

After the midway point of the season, City were virtually untouchable as they surged clear with a record 21-game winning streak in all competitions by an English top-flight side.

Revitalised by the addition of Portugese international centre-back Ruben Dias and the emergence of England playmaker Phil Foden, City silenced the critics who questioned Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard suffered the worst start to a season in his managerial career.

Regaining the title from Liverpool, while also winning the League Cup and reaching their first Champions League final, suggests City are in position for a period of sustained dominance.

They have few weaknesses but the close-season departure of Sergio Aguero, the club's record goalscorer, leaves a void that needs filling.

England striker Harry Kane could be top of Guardiola's shopping list after confirming he wants to leave Tottenham, but his mooted £150 million ($213 million) price tag may convince him to look at the younger and cheaper Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland.

<h2>Manchester United</h2>

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer survived some rocky spells to establish his side as genuine title contenders heading into next season.

Solskjaer led United to a second place finish -- 12 points behind City -- and the Norwegian has a chance to win the first trophy of his reign in the Europa League final against Villarreal on Wednesday.

Portugal star Bruno Fernandes has been the catalyst, providing on-field inspiration and dressing room leadership in equal measure, a stark contrast to the gifted but temperamental Paul Pogba.

Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were potent in patches and keeping Edinson Cavani was a wise move, but Kane has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford with Solskjaer needing a world-class striker in his prime to really worry City.

Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish are also reportedly targets to add extra creativity and goals from the wide areas.

But bigger questions remain in defence with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof not always convincing at centre-back, while Dean Henderson and David De Gea battle to be number one goalkeeper.

<h2>Liverpool</h2>

Hamstrung by a seemingly endless injury list that deprived them of key leaders Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson for most of the season, Liverpool finished outside the top two for the first time in three years.

Jurgen Klopp's often tetchy demeanour reflected the stress of an arduous campaign as Liverpool failed to build on last season's first English title in 30 years.

But a strong run of eight wins in their last 10 league games earned a third-place finish, providing optimism for next term.

Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve on patchy individual campaigns, with Mohamed Salah's future also up for debate after his flirtation with Real Madrid.

While Liverpool have work to do if they are to regain their position as the Premier League's preeminent force, the return of Van Dijk, Henderson and Joe Gomez next season will be a significant boost to their title hopes.

<h2>Chelsea</h2>

When Frank Lampard was sacked in January, Chelsea were languishing in ninth place as a troubled season threatened to spiral out of control.

However, the decision to hire Thomas Tuchel as Lampard's replacement proved inspired and the German has fourth-placed Chelsea nicely positioned to push on next season.

Aided by Mason Mount's superb form, Tuchel has taken Chelsea to the Champions League final for the first time since 2012, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid unable to solve the tactical tweaks that made the Blues solid in defence and deadly on the counter-attack.

Having healed the fractures in a squad divided by Lampard's methods, Tuchel has already masterminded two victories over City and one against Liverpool.

To truly turn Chelsea into a force, the former Paris Saint Germain boss must solve the problems posed by the erratic form of expensive signings Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season.

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season. Liverpool and Manchester United look capable of pushing the champions, while Chelsea should be in the mix after Thomas Tuchel's impressive impact on the Champions League finalists. AFP Sport looks at how the four leading title contenders will shape up: Manchester City After the midway point of the season, City were virtually untouchable as they surged clear with a record 21-game winning streak in all competitions by an English top-flight side. Revitalised by the addition of Portugese international centre-back Ruben Dias and the emergence of England playmaker Phil Foden, City silenced the critics who questioned Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard suffered the worst start to a season in his managerial career. Regaining the title from Liverpool, while also winning the League Cup and reaching their first Champions League final, suggests City are in position for a period of sustained dominance. They have few weaknesses but the close-season departure of Sergio Aguero, the club's record goalscorer, leaves a void that needs filling. England striker Harry Kane could be top of Guardiola's shopping list after confirming he wants to leave Tottenham, but his mooted £150 million ($213 million) price tag may convince him to look at the younger and cheaper Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland. Manchester United United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer survived some rocky spells to establish his side as genuine title contenders heading into next season. Solskjaer led United to a second place finish -- 12 points behind City -- and the Norwegian has a chance to win the first trophy of his reign in the Europa League final against Villarreal on Wednesday. Portugal star Bruno Fernandes has been the catalyst, providing on-field inspiration and dressing room leadership in equal measure, a stark contrast to the gifted but temperamental Paul Pogba. Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were potent in patches and keeping Edinson Cavani was a wise move, but Kane has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford with Solskjaer needing a world-class striker in his prime to really worry City. Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish are also reportedly targets to add extra creativity and goals from the wide areas. But bigger questions remain in defence with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof not always convincing at centre-back, while Dean Henderson and David De Gea battle to be number one goalkeeper. Liverpool Hamstrung by a seemingly endless injury list that deprived them of key leaders Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson for most of the season, Liverpool finished outside the top two for the first time in three years. Jurgen Klopp's often tetchy demeanour reflected the stress of an arduous campaign as Liverpool failed to build on last season's first English title in 30 years. But a strong run of eight wins in their last 10 league games earned a third-place finish, providing optimism for next term. Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve on patchy individual campaigns, with Mohamed Salah's future also up for debate after his flirtation with Real Madrid. While Liverpool have work to do if they are to regain their position as the Premier League's preeminent force, the return of Van Dijk, Henderson and Joe Gomez next season will be a significant boost to their title hopes. Chelsea When Frank Lampard was sacked in January, Chelsea were languishing in ninth place as a troubled season threatened to spiral out of control. However, the decision to hire Thomas Tuchel as Lampard's replacement proved inspired and the German has fourth-placed Chelsea nicely positioned to push on next season. Aided by Mason Mount's superb form, Tuchel has taken Chelsea to the Champions League final for the first time since 2012, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid unable to solve the tactical tweaks that made the Blues solid in defence and deadly on the counter-attack. Having healed the fractures in a squad divided by Lampard's methods, Tuchel has already masterminded two victories over City and one against Liverpool. To truly turn Chelsea into a force, the former Paris Saint Germain boss must solve the problems posed by the erratic form of expensive signings Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.

Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Premier League 2020-21 season comes to a conclusion on Sunday and Manchester City will give a fitting farewell to the Argentine striker by lifting the Premier League trophy in front of 10,000 fans at the Etihad Stadium.<o:p></o:p>

While Aguero would still have one more match left for Man City in the final of UEFA Champions League, the match on Sunday, against Everton, will be his last in the Etihad Stadium as he bids farewell following a trophy-laden decade at the Premier League club.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero has scored a club-record 258 goals since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2011, winning five Premier League titles among other silverware.

<o:p></o:p>

Aguero was presented with a mosaic inspired by his first-ever Manchester City goal against Swansea City in 2011. The mosaic has been installed at the City Football Academy, beside a pitch that will now bear his name, having been dedicated to the Club’s all-time record goal-scorer.

The Argentine was also pictured with all 15 of the trophies he has won during his time here in Manchester, and also at the Northern Quarter where a mural of Sergio’s famous 93:20 moment has been painted.

Ahead of the final home match for Manchester City, Aguero thanked the Cityzens for ever-lasting support as he said the process becomes easier when a player is backed by the fans.

<o:p></o:p>

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Signed by the man himself. ✍️😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aguerosergiokun</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/GpyRUQ7fgO">pic.twitter.com/GpyRUQ7fgO</a>
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“My message to the fans is: ‘Thank you,’” Aguero told Man City’s official website. “Thank you to the City fans for always supporting me.<o:p></o:p>

“When you feel the love from your fans, everything is a lot easier. It’s the same for anyone in any line of work - when someone believes in you, you do better. I owe a lot to the people at this Club because I have the City fans to thank for everything.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-to-carry-out-study-on-holding-world-cup-every-two-years-386693" hreflang="en">Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years</a><o:p></o:p>

“I remember being on the pitch and playing badly – games where I have played really badly – but it was incredible to see the fans still got behind me. I remember them shouting my name. I just want to say thank you and hope that they enjoy this moment.<o:p></o:p>

“I have always felt it (appreciation), even from Manchester United fans! I go out to eat and everyone always shows me a lot of respect.<o:p></o:p>

“It makes me really happy because I know that I have given my all for them. I have also met so many fans who are totally crazy about City, with tattoos, and I understand this kind of fanbase for a Club like this one."<o:p></o:p>

The Argentine has had an injury-hit final campaign and has missed the past two games, but manager Guardiola is confident he will be able to receive a rousing farewell from the 10,000 fans who will be at the Etihad this weekend.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero, fourth in the Premier League all-time scorers list with 182 goals, will forever be remembered for his injury-time strike that secured City's first Premier League title in 2012.The Argentine striker – the Club’s all-time record goalscorer – will don the City shirt for the final time at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, as the Champions welcome Everton in the Premier League’s season finale.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-man-citys-ruben-dias-named-fwa-player-of-the-year-386227" hreflang="en">Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named FWA Player of the Year</a><o:p></o:p>

With 10,000 supporters in attendance at the stadium for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be able to bid an emotional farewell to Kun, showing their appreciation for a remarkable career in blue.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero further recalled his best moment for Manchester City and his career – something he would want to relive – as he named the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers in 2012, which helped Manchester City win the Premier League for the first time in 44 years. <o:p></o:p>

“It is the best memory that I will ever have in my head,” he declared.

<o:p></o:p>

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🥺 <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AgueroSergioKun</a>'s last <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> game. 
🔝The 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙖𝙮 of the 20/21 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> season. 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> trophy lift at the Etihad Stadium. 
 
🥰 It’s only right... <a href="https://t.co/S85yUL2OcE">pic.twitter.com/S85yUL2OcE</a>
— Man City Report (@cityreport_) <a href="https://twitter.com/cityreport_/status/1396179096426721283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“I don’t think it will happen again in another country or in this one. It’s not something that can be repeated. For me, I don’t know if it was the best goal because obviously it was just another goal, but it was the best moment of my life.<o:p></o:p>

“Every time I watch the goal with my friends, or my son shows it to me and I watch with my family, it seems as though it was last year when actually a lot of time has passed but I will always remember this goal like it was yesterday.<o:p></o:p>

“It was just so crazy, so amazing. We won more titles after this one and those celebrations were the same but the celebrations that year were different, very different.<o:p></o:p>

“I remember that night we went with our families and everyone from the Club to party. We were all still in shock. We were saying: ‘This is crazy! We just won the Premier League and in the last minute!’<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;“I think we celebrated for two days in a row with all of our families and everyone at the Club. It was incredible. Two days of crazy partying but with family, people from the Club and with teammates.<o:p></o:p>

“Every time we saw each other, we would shout: ‘Champions, Champions!’ We were just so happy. It was a unique moment – different to everything else.<o:p></o:p>

“It was a dream. Obviously, in the game, we knew that we could win the league. We could have scored earlier and then you’re counting down the minutes waiting for the celebrations but it is a different kind of celebration when you score at the very end. It was total madness!”<o:p></o:p>

However, with UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea set to be played on May 29 in Porto, Aguero would be itching to have the perfect farewell by lifting the most important trophy in club football. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Premier League 2020-21 season comes to a conclusion on Sunday and Manchester City will give a fitting farewell to the Argentine striker by lifting the Premier League trophy in front of 10,000 fans at the Etihad Stadium. While Aguero would still have one more match left for Man City in the final of UEFA Champions League, the match on Sunday, against Everton, will be his last in the Etihad Stadium as he bids farewell following a trophy-laden decade at the Premier League club. Aguero has scored a club-record 258 goals since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2011, winning five Premier League titles among other silverware. Aguero was presented with a mosaic inspired by his first-ever Manchester City goal against Swansea City in 2011. The mosaic has been installed at the City Football Academy, beside a pitch that will now bear his name, having been dedicated to the Club’s all-time record goal-scorer. The Argentine was also pictured with all 15 of the trophies he has won during his time here in Manchester, and also at the Northern Quarter where a mural of Sergio’s famous 93:20 moment has been painted. Ahead of the final home match for Manchester City, Aguero thanked the Cityzens for ever-lasting support as he said the process becomes easier when a player is backed by the fans. Signed by the man himself. ✍️😍 @aguerosergiokun // @ManCity pic.twitter.com/GpyRUQ7fgO — City Xtra (@City_Xtra) May 22, 2021 × “My message to the fans is: ‘Thank you,’” Aguero told Man City’s official website. “Thank you to the City fans for always supporting me. “When you feel the love from your fans, everything is a lot easier. It’s the same for anyone in any line of work - when someone believes in you, you do better. I owe a lot to the people at this Club because I have the City fans to thank for everything. ALSO READ: Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years “I remember being on the pitch and playing badly – games where I have played really badly – but it was incredible to see the fans still got behind me. I remember them shouting my name. I just want to say thank you and hope that they enjoy this moment. “I have always felt it (appreciation), even from Manchester United fans! I go out to eat and everyone always shows me a lot of respect. “It makes me really happy because I know that I have given my all for them. I have also met so many fans who are totally crazy about City, with tattoos, and I understand this kind of fanbase for a Club like this one." The Argentine has had an injury-hit final campaign and has missed the past two games, but manager Guardiola is confident he will be able to receive a rousing farewell from the 10,000 fans who will be at the Etihad this weekend. Aguero, fourth in the Premier League all-time scorers list with 182 goals, will forever be remembered for his injury-time strike that secured City's first Premier League title in 2012.The Argentine striker – the Club’s all-time record goalscorer – will don the City shirt for the final time at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, as the Champions welcome Everton in the Premier League’s season finale. ALSO READ: Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named FWA Player of the Year With 10,000 supporters in attendance at the stadium for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be able to bid an emotional farewell to Kun, showing their appreciation for a remarkable career in blue. Aguero further recalled his best moment for Manchester City and his career – something he would want to relive – as he named the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers in 2012, which helped Manchester City win the Premier League for the first time in 44 years. “It is the best memory that I will ever have in my head,” he declared. 🥺 @AgueroSergioKun's last #PL game. 🔝The 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙖𝙮 of the 20/21 #PL season. 🏆 #PL trophy lift at the Etihad Stadium. 🥰 It’s only right... pic.twitter.com/S85yUL2OcE — Man City Report (@cityreport_) May 22, 2021 × “I don’t think it will happen again in another country or in this one. It’s not something that can be repeated. For me, I don’t know if it was the best goal because obviously it was just another goal, but it was the best moment of my life. “Every time I watch the goal with my friends, or my son shows it to me and I watch with my family, it seems as though it was last year when actually a lot of time has passed but I will always remember this goal like it was yesterday. “It was just so crazy, so amazing. We won more titles after this one and those celebrations were the same but the celebrations that year were different, very different. “I remember that night we went with our families and everyone from the Club to party. We were all still in shock. We were saying: ‘This is crazy! We just won the Premier League and in the last minute!’ “I think we celebrated for two days in a row with all of our families and everyone at the Club. It was incredible. Two days of crazy partying but with family, people from the Club and with teammates. “Every time we saw each other, we would shout: ‘Champions, Champions!’ We were just so happy. It was a unique moment – different to everything else. “It was a dream. Obviously, in the game, we knew that we could win the league. We could have scored earlier and then you’re counting down the minutes waiting for the celebrations but it is a different kind of celebration when you score at the very end. It was total madness!” However, with UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea set to be played on May 29 in Porto, Aguero would be itching to have the perfect farewell by lifting the most important trophy in club football.

'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies.<o:p></o:p>

The first of Man City’s successes was confirmed in April when Maresca’s Elite Development Squad won the Club’s first-ever PL2 title. That was followed up three weeks later when Guardiola’s first team secured the Premier League title for the third time in four years. And on Saturday, Manchester City U18s were crowned 2020/21 U18 Premier League National champions as Vicens’ side sealed the prestigious title with a superb 3-1 victory over Fulham.<o:p></o:p>

It means Manchester City are the first Club to win U18 league titles (both regional and national), the Premier League 2 and the Premier League in the same season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-moment-of-my-life-sergio-aguero-recalls-stoppage-time-winner-vs-qpr-as-he-ends-decade-long-stay-at-man-city-386854" hreflang="en">'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City</a><o:p></o:p>

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, where 10,000 fans will be present for the first time in 15 months. The occasion will also mark Sergio Aguero’s last appearance in Manchester City colours at the Etihad Stadium as the Argentine striker – club’s greatest goalscorer - ends a trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-andrea-pirlo-says-his-juventus-future-does-not-depend-on-top-four-finish-386848" hreflang="en">Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish</a><o:p></o:p>

Man City’s first team will also eye their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy next weekend when they take on Chelsea in the final in Porto. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies.

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies. The first of Man City’s successes was confirmed in April when Maresca’s Elite Development Squad won the Club’s first-ever PL2 title. That was followed up three weeks later when Guardiola’s first team secured the Premier League title for the third time in four years. And on Saturday, Manchester City U18s were crowned 2020/21 U18 Premier League National champions as Vicens’ side sealed the prestigious title with a superb 3-1 victory over Fulham. It means Manchester City are the first Club to win U18 league titles (both regional and national), the Premier League 2 and the Premier League in the same season. ALSO READ: 'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, where 10,000 fans will be present for the first time in 15 months. The occasion will also mark Sergio Aguero’s last appearance in Manchester City colours at the Etihad Stadium as the Argentine striker – club’s greatest goalscorer - ends a trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. ALSO READ: Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish Man City’s first team will also eye their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy next weekend when they take on Chelsea in the final in Porto.

Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles

Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is set to join Catalan giants Barcelona after his deal with the English club runs out next month. The Argentine will join his fellow national teammate and captain Lionel Messi after agreeing to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/city-wouldnt-have-won-title-with-similar-injury-issues-liverpools-klopp-386665" hreflang="en">City wouldn't have won title with similar injury issues: Liverpool's Klopp</a>

The star striker, who will turn 33 by the next season, has agreed to join Barcelona for a lower salary than was available elsewhere, however, will receive a bonus if the team win the Champions League.

Aguero has had a troubled 2020/2021 season with Manchester City as the striker's appearance was limited to 18 appearances with just four goals to his name after a string of injuries.&nbsp;

Man City boss Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Aguero on Friday and said: “His performance when he fit was fit was incredible.”

“I am pretty sure the 10,000 fans that will be in the stadium will show for the rest of the fans around the world, and will give him his tribute and gratitude for what he’s done for this club in terms of titles, numbers, performance – incredible,” he added.&nbsp;

Aguero's final match in the Etihad Stadium will be against Everton on Sunday and his final match in the Manchester City jersey will be in the highly-anticipated UEFA Champions League finals against Chelsea.&nbsp;

Barcelona are&nbsp;also closing in on Memphis Depay, who is set to run out of contract with Lyon this summer.&nbsp;

Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is set to join Catalan giants Barcelona after his deal with the English club runs out next month. The Argentine will join his fellow national teammate and captain Lionel Messi after agreeing to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona.

Manchester City star Sergio Aguero is set to join Catalan giants Barcelona after his deal with the English club runs out next month. The Argentine will join his fellow national teammate and captain Lionel Messi after agreeing to sign a two-year contract with Barcelona. ALSO READ: City wouldn't have won title with similar injury issues: Liverpool's Klopp The star striker, who will turn 33 by the next season, has agreed to join Barcelona for a lower salary than was available elsewhere, however, will receive a bonus if the team win the Champions League. Aguero has had a troubled 2020/2021 season with Manchester City as the striker's appearance was limited to 18 appearances with just four goals to his name after a string of injuries. Man City boss Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Aguero on Friday and said: “His performance when he fit was fit was incredible.” “I am pretty sure the 10,000 fans that will be in the stadium will show for the rest of the fans around the world, and will give him his tribute and gratitude for what he’s done for this club in terms of titles, numbers, performance – incredible,” he added. Aguero's final match in the Etihad Stadium will be against Everton on Sunday and his final match in the Manchester City jersey will be in the highly-anticipated UEFA Champions League finals against Chelsea. Barcelona are also closing in on Memphis Depay, who is set to run out of contract with Lyon this summer.

Man City star Sergio Aguero set to join Barcelona on two-year contract

Chelsea are on course to qualify for the Champions League after a crucial 2-1 win against top-four rivals Leicester, while Brighton staged a superb fightback to beat champions Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;as fans returned to the Premier League on Tuesday.

Supporters have been allowed back into Premier League matches this week for the first time since December following the UK's easing of coronavirus restrictions.

Around 8,000 fans were at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea moved into the third place at Leicester's expense, while 7,900 saw Brighton's dramatic 3-2 victory against&nbsp;City.

There were 10,000 United fans at Old Trafford for their 1-1 draw with relegated Fulham and 8,000 at Southampton for their 2-0 defeat against Leeds.

Chelsea avenged Saturday's 1-0 FA Cup final defeat against Leicester to steal a march on the Foxes in the race for the top four.

Thomas Tuchel's side broke the deadlock in the 47th minute when Antonio Rudiger bundled home after a corner was unwittingly flicked on by Leicester's Luke Thomas.

Jorginho doubled Chelsea's lead with a 66th-minute penalty after VAR ruled Wesley Fofana fouled Timo Werner.

Kelechi Iheanacho set up a tense finale when the Leicester striker slotted home in the 76th minute.

But Chelsea held on and emotions ran high in stoppage-time after a brawl erupted featuring virtually every player and members of both teams' coaching staffs.

Chelsea will be guaranteed to finish third if they win at Aston Villa in their last game of the season on Sunday.

"The fans made a huge difference. The speed in our game, the hunger, the ambition. It was a very strong performance," Tuchel said.

"The job is not done but it's still in our hands. We need another huge performance at Aston Villa."

Having won the FA Cup for the first time, fourth-placed Leicester could be denied a top-four finish on the last day for the second successive season.

Brendan Rodgers' team are three points ahead of fifth-placed Liverpool, but the Reds would go above them on goal difference if they win at Burnley on Wednesday.

Leicester's final match is at home to Tottenham, while Liverpool host Crystal Palace.

"We're obviously disappointed with the goals. We conceded a needless corner and didn't pick up well enough. The penalty is very harsh," Rodgers said.

"We're still in that top four and we've got one more game to go. If we win it and it's still not enough for us we have to accept that. It's still been a great season."

With the title wrapped up, Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;are fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto on May 29.

But Pep Guardiola's side were beaten for the second time in their last three games after a second-half collapse at the Amex Stadium.

Ilkay Gundogan headed&nbsp;City&nbsp;into the lead from Riyad Mahrez's second-minute cross.

Joao Cancelo was sent off in the 10th minute after the&nbsp;City&nbsp;defender hauled down Danny Welbeck.

Phil Foden increased&nbsp;City's lead in the 48th minute with a fine solo effort, only for Leandro Trossard to get one back moments later.

Adam Webster equalised with a thumping header in the 72nd minute before Dan Burn grabbed the winner from close range four minutes later.

"Congratulations to Brighton and their fans. I didn't see the red card. The nicest thing is we have won the Premier League on the pitch already," Guardiola said.

The return of fans to Old Trafford was peaceful despite fears of more angry protests against United's owners the Glazer family.

Many fans wore green and yellow scarves in the colours of United's predecessors Newton Heath, which became a symbol of protests against the Glazers when they bought the club in 2005.

Some held up signs reading "Glazers Out" and chanted against the Americans, but the discontent was drowned out by songs of praise for Edinson Cavani in the 15th minute.

Bruno Fernandes flicked David De Gea's long ball into Cavani's path and the Uruguay striker, spotting Alphonse Areola off his line, lofted a gorgeous 40-yard chip over the Fulham keeper.

Joe Bryan headed the equaliser from Bobby Decordova-Reid's cross in the 76th minute.

"The buzz, the energy, the atmosphere was magic, really. We've really missed it. It was fantastic to have them back," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of the fans.

Chelsea are on course to qualify for the Champions League after a crucial 2-1 win against top-four rivals Leicester, while Brighton staged a superb fightback to beat champions Manchester City as fans returned to the Premier League on Tuesday.

Chelsea are on course to qualify for the Champions League after a crucial 2-1 win against top-four rivals Leicester, while Brighton staged a superb fightback to beat champions Manchester City as fans returned to the Premier League on Tuesday. Supporters have been allowed back into Premier League matches this week for the first time since December following the UK's easing of coronavirus restrictions. Around 8,000 fans were at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea moved into the third place at Leicester's expense, while 7,900 saw Brighton's dramatic 3-2 victory against City. There were 10,000 United fans at Old Trafford for their 1-1 draw with relegated Fulham and 8,000 at Southampton for their 2-0 defeat against Leeds. Chelsea avenged Saturday's 1-0 FA Cup final defeat against Leicester to steal a march on the Foxes in the race for the top four. Thomas Tuchel's side broke the deadlock in the 47th minute when Antonio Rudiger bundled home after a corner was unwittingly flicked on by Leicester's Luke Thomas. Jorginho doubled Chelsea's lead with a 66th-minute penalty after VAR ruled Wesley Fofana fouled Timo Werner. Kelechi Iheanacho set up a tense finale when the Leicester striker slotted home in the 76th minute. But Chelsea held on and emotions ran high in stoppage-time after a brawl erupted featuring virtually every player and members of both teams' coaching staffs. Chelsea will be guaranteed to finish third if they win at Aston Villa in their last game of the season on Sunday. "The fans made a huge difference. The speed in our game, the hunger, the ambition. It was a very strong performance," Tuchel said. "The job is not done but it's still in our hands. We need another huge performance at Aston Villa." Having won the FA Cup for the first time, fourth-placed Leicester could be denied a top-four finish on the last day for the second successive season. Brendan Rodgers' team are three points ahead of fifth-placed Liverpool, but the Reds would go above them on goal difference if they win at Burnley on Wednesday. Leicester's final match is at home to Tottenham, while Liverpool host Crystal Palace. "We're obviously disappointed with the goals. We conceded a needless corner and didn't pick up well enough. The penalty is very harsh," Rodgers said. "We're still in that top four and we've got one more game to go. If we win it and it's still not enough for us we have to accept that. It's still been a great season." With the title wrapped up, Manchester City are fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the Champions League final against Chelsea in Porto on May 29. But Pep Guardiola's side were beaten for the second time in their last three games after a second-half collapse at the Amex Stadium. Ilkay Gundogan headed City into the lead from Riyad Mahrez's second-minute cross. Joao Cancelo was sent off in the 10th minute after the City defender hauled down Danny Welbeck. Phil Foden increased City's lead in the 48th minute with a fine solo effort, only for Leandro Trossard to get one back moments later. Adam Webster equalised with a thumping header in the 72nd minute before Dan Burn grabbed the winner from close range four minutes later. "Congratulations to Brighton and their fans. I didn't see the red card. The nicest thing is we have won the Premier League on the pitch already," Guardiola said. The return of fans to Old Trafford was peaceful despite fears of more angry protests against United's owners the Glazer family. Many fans wore green and yellow scarves in the colours of United's predecessors Newton Heath, which became a symbol of protests against the Glazers when they bought the club in 2005. Some held up signs reading "Glazers Out" and chanted against the Americans, but the discontent was drowned out by songs of praise for Edinson Cavani in the 15th minute. Bruno Fernandes flicked David De Gea's long ball into Cavani's path and the Uruguay striker, spotting Alphonse Areola off his line, lofted a gorgeous 40-yard chip over the Fulham keeper. Joe Bryan headed the equaliser from Bobby Decordova-Reid's cross in the 76th minute. "The buzz, the energy, the atmosphere was magic, really. We've really missed it. It was fantastic to have them back," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of the fans.

Chelsea beat Leicester to boost top-four bid, Man City rocked by Brighton

Ferran Torres scored his first Manchester City hat-trick as the Premier League champions beat Newcastle United 4-3 to claim an English record 12th consecutive away league win on Friday.

With Pep Guardiola's City having already bagged the title and Newcastle safe, there was nothing riding on the fixture but it served up some rich entertainment with Spaniard Torres especially enjoying himself at St James' Park.

"Incredible numbers and goals in his first season in the Premier League," Guardiola said of the 21-year-old signed from Valencia for 20 million pounds ($28.20 million) last August.

"He is so young and clinical. He is a guy brought as a winger but maybe we have to think as a striker."

Twice City had to come from a goal down as they extended the gap at the top of the table to 13 points.

Guardiola rested first-choice goalkeeper Ederson and handed 35-year-old former England player Scott Carson his first appearance for the club.

Carson's first action was to pick the ball out of the back of his net after Emil Krafth found space to head home Jonjo Shelvey's cross in the 25th minute.

Joao Cancelo's deflected drive levelled it up in the 39th minute and Torres put City ahead with a superbly improvised flick to direct Ilkay Guendogan's cross into the net.

But Newcastle were level in first-half stoppage time when Joelinton thumped a penalty past Carson after a complex VAR decision. Joelinton was clearly taken down by Nathan Ake in the box but VAR was required to decide whether Allan Saint-Maximin had been offside in the build-up.

It was proving a busy night for Carson and he faced another penalty just past the hour when Kyle Walker barged over Joe Willock in the area.

Carson saved Willock's effort but the Arsenal loanee turned in the rebound.

But City were in no mood to offer any gifts and were level again within two minutes as Torres converted a cross by Raheem Sterling on the stretch.

Two minutes later he completed his hat-trick when he showed great balance to volley home a rebound after Cancelo struck the woodwork with a fierce drive from outside the area.

Torres now has 13 goals in all competitions for City this season and while Carson's contribution has been far less, Guardiola was full of praise for his stand-in keeper, too.

"We are incredibly happy for him. He is an important player for us. He is a real leader and today was an exceptional day to let him play," the Spaniard said.

Ferran Torres scored his first Manchester City hat-trick as the Premier League champions beat Newcastle United 4-3 to claim an English record 12th consecutive away league win on Friday.

Ferran Torres scored his first Manchester City hat-trick as the Premier League champions beat Newcastle United 4-3 to claim an English record 12th consecutive away league win on Friday. With Pep Guardiola's City having already bagged the title and Newcastle safe, there was nothing riding on the fixture but it served up some rich entertainment with Spaniard Torres especially enjoying himself at St James' Park. "Incredible numbers and goals in his first season in the Premier League," Guardiola said of the 21-year-old signed from Valencia for 20 million pounds ($28.20 million) last August. "He is so young and clinical. He is a guy brought as a winger but maybe we have to think as a striker." Twice City had to come from a goal down as they extended the gap at the top of the table to 13 points. Guardiola rested first-choice goalkeeper Ederson and handed 35-year-old former England player Scott Carson his first appearance for the club. Carson's first action was to pick the ball out of the back of his net after Emil Krafth found space to head home Jonjo Shelvey's cross in the 25th minute. Joao Cancelo's deflected drive levelled it up in the 39th minute and Torres put City ahead with a superbly improvised flick to direct Ilkay Guendogan's cross into the net. But Newcastle were level in first-half stoppage time when Joelinton thumped a penalty past Carson after a complex VAR decision. Joelinton was clearly taken down by Nathan Ake in the box but VAR was required to decide whether Allan Saint-Maximin had been offside in the build-up. It was proving a busy night for Carson and he faced another penalty just past the hour when Kyle Walker barged over Joe Willock in the area. Carson saved Willock's effort but the Arsenal loanee turned in the rebound. But City were in no mood to offer any gifts and were level again within two minutes as Torres converted a cross by Raheem Sterling on the stretch. Two minutes later he completed his hat-trick when he showed great balance to volley home a rebound after Cancelo struck the woodwork with a fierce drive from outside the area. Torres now has 13 goals in all competitions for City this season and while Carson's contribution has been far less, Guardiola was full of praise for his stand-in keeper, too. "We are incredibly happy for him. He is an important player for us. He is a real leader and today was an exceptional day to let him play," the Spaniard said.

Premier League: Torres hat-trick as record-breaking Man City beat Newcastle

English fans attending the Champions League final in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea will have to fly in on the day of the match and will need to stay in a 'bubble' before flying back straight after the game, the Portuguese government said on Thursday.

European soccer's governing body UEFA confirmed on Thursday that the game had been moved from original host Istanbul to Porto in order to ensure that English fans could attend.

Turkey was on the UK government's 'red list' for travel while Portugal has been placed on the 'green list'.

City and Chelsea will each be provided with 6,000 tickets for their fans.

Portugal's Cabinet Affairs Minister Mariana Vieira da Silva told a news conference that a set of rules had been put in place for those fans attending the final.

"Those who come to the final of the Champions League will come and return on the same day, with a test done, in a bubble situation, on charter flights.

"There will be two fan zones and from there they will be moved to the stadium and from the stadium to the airport, being in Portugal less than 24 hours," she said.

Vieira da Silva said that the local health authority was in charge of selecting seats for fans to ensure social distancing and that tickets were non-transferable.

Fans who traveled to Porto to enjoy the occasion without going to the stadium were not subject to the same restrictions Vieira da Silva added.

"Obviously those coming by plane (to be in Porto while the match is on but do not actually go the stadium) will comply with the established rules and security measures will be put in place as happened in Lisbon last year."

She said the restrictions put in place were to ensure that COVID-19 rates remain low in Portugal.

The announcement will be a blow to Porto's hotel and hospitality industry who would have been hoping to cash in on English fans enjoying a long weekend in the city.

UEFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Manchester City said on their website that the club would be "offering qualifying supporters an official day trip travel package from Manchester to Porto. Further information will be provided to supporters as soon as possible."

English fans attending the Champions League final in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea will have to fly in on the day of the match and will need to stay in a 'bubble' before flying back straight after the game, the Portuguese government said on Thursday.

English fans attending the Champions League final in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea will have to fly in on the day of the match and will need to stay in a 'bubble' before flying back straight after the game, the Portuguese government said on Thursday. European soccer's governing body UEFA confirmed on Thursday that the game had been moved from original host Istanbul to Porto in order to ensure that English fans could attend. Turkey was on the UK government's 'red list' for travel while Portugal has been placed on the 'green list'. City and Chelsea will each be provided with 6,000 tickets for their fans. Portugal's Cabinet Affairs Minister Mariana Vieira da Silva told a news conference that a set of rules had been put in place for those fans attending the final. "Those who come to the final of the Champions League will come and return on the same day, with a test done, in a bubble situation, on charter flights. "There will be two fan zones and from there they will be moved to the stadium and from the stadium to the airport, being in Portugal less than 24 hours," she said. Vieira da Silva said that the local health authority was in charge of selecting seats for fans to ensure social distancing and that tickets were non-transferable. Fans who traveled to Porto to enjoy the occasion without going to the stadium were not subject to the same restrictions Vieira da Silva added. "Obviously those coming by plane (to be in Porto while the match is on but do not actually go the stadium) will comply with the established rules and security measures will be put in place as happened in Lisbon last year." She said the restrictions put in place were to ensure that COVID-19 rates remain low in Portugal. The announcement will be a blow to Porto's hotel and hospitality industry who would have been hoping to cash in on English fans enjoying a long weekend in the city. UEFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Manchester City said on their website that the club would be "offering qualifying supporters an official day trip travel package from Manchester to Porto. Further information will be provided to supporters as soon as possible."

Fans to stay in bubble, return same day for Champions League final

'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win

Manager Pep Guardiola hailed "relentless"&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;after they clinched the "hardest" of his three Premier League titles on Tuesday, sparking wild celebrations among supporters who had gathered outside the Etihad Stadium.

City&nbsp;were handed the title when arch-rivals and nearest challengers&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United lost 2-1 at home to Leicester, leaving Guardiola's side 10 points clear with three games remaining.

"This has been a season and a Premier League title like no other. This was the hardest one," said Guardiola after&nbsp;City&nbsp;became English champions for the seventh time -- five titles coming in the past nine years.

City&nbsp;missed a chance to celebrate on the pitch at the weekend, losing 2-1 at home to Chelsea with United keeping them waiting by winning at Aston Villa.

But two days later they were able to savour a title triumph that is all the sweeter given the obstacles they have overcome in a coronavirus-condensed campaign played mostly without fans.

"We will always remember this season for the way we won. I am so proud to be the manager here and of this group of players," said Guardiola.&nbsp;

It was&nbsp;City's second trophy in a little over two weeks after beating Tottenham in the League Cup final.

"They are so special. To come through this season, with all the restrictions and difficulties we've faced, and show the consistency we have is remarkable. It is relentless."

With coronavirus restrictions to be eased next week, there will be up to 10,000 fans in the Etihad Stadium to see&nbsp;City&nbsp;lift the trophy after their final home game with Everton on May 23.

In the meantime, hundreds celebrated in the streets outside&nbsp;City's stadium, letting off blue flares, waving banners and joyously chanting.

"It feels amazing, the greatest feeling is winning the Premier League. Better than any other in football. Love it!"&nbsp;City&nbsp;fan Graham Warner told AFP.

The club joined the celebrations by unveiling a giant sky blue banner on the outside of the stadium with the slogan "CHAMPIONS" above a picture of the team celebrating.

Since being taken over by the Abu Dhabi Group in September 2008,&nbsp;City&nbsp;have become the dominant force in English football, winning five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and six League Cups.&nbsp;

This is the third time&nbsp;City&nbsp;have clinched a Premier League and League Cup double, and they also won a domestic treble in 2018/19 by adding the FA Cup.

They can secure another treble later this month, having reached their first Champions League final by beating Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final last week.

They will face Chelsea on May 29, with the venue likely to be switched from Istanbul to either Portugal or England so some fans can attend.

"Pep Guardiola is the greatest manager in the history of English football. And hopefully we're going to cap it all in a couple of weeks with the big one,"&nbsp;City&nbsp;supporter Charlie Hibber said.

Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;captain Fernandinho is now targeting being crowned European champions for the first time.

"We will enjoy this moment and we hope the fans do too," said the Brazilian midfielder.&nbsp;

"Rest assured we will continue to do everything we can to bring the Champions League home this season."

Fernandinho's&nbsp;City&nbsp;team-mates took to social media to celebrate their title triumph.

Alongside a picture of him celebrating with team-mate Rodri, Aymeric Laporte wrote on Twitter: "CHAMPIONNNNES CHAMPIONNNNES OLE OLE OLE."

Kevin De Bruyne posted: "Another One", while Raheem Sterling tweeted: "What's that smell?" before following with: "IT'S THE CHAMPIONS BABYYYY."

Prolific Argentina forward Sergio Aguero, who is leaving at the end of the season after 10 years at the club, wrote: "Champions! Proud of this team! Five #PremierLeague titles with #ManCity."

Leicester and United has been locked 1-1 at Old Trafford until Caglar Soyuncu's towering second-half header ensured&nbsp;City&nbsp;could pop the champagne with three games to spare after an uncharacteristically slow start because of the lack of a proper pre-season.

City&nbsp;won just five of their opening 12 Premier League games but Guardiola masterminded such a superb recovery that the title race became a procession, giving him three Premier League crowns to go with three La Liga trophies with Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga.&nbsp;

"At the start of every season, the Premier League is the most important title for us. This is the one where you have to be there every three days, playing all your rivals home and away," Guardiola said.

"Only by being the very best, week in week out, can you win this competition. It is a huge success."

Manager Pep Guardiola hailed "relentless" Manchester City after they clinched the "hardest" of his three Premier League titles on Tuesday, sparking wild celebrations among supporters who had gathered outside the Etihad Stadium.

Manager Pep Guardiola hailed "relentless" Manchester City after they clinched the "hardest" of his three Premier League titles on Tuesday, sparking wild celebrations among supporters who had gathered outside the Etihad Stadium. City were handed the title when arch-rivals and nearest challengers Manchester United lost 2-1 at home to Leicester, leaving Guardiola's side 10 points clear with three games remaining. "This has been a season and a Premier League title like no other. This was the hardest one," said Guardiola after City became English champions for the seventh time -- five titles coming in the past nine years. City missed a chance to celebrate on the pitch at the weekend, losing 2-1 at home to Chelsea with United keeping them waiting by winning at Aston Villa. But two days later they were able to savour a title triumph that is all the sweeter given the obstacles they have overcome in a coronavirus-condensed campaign played mostly without fans. "We will always remember this season for the way we won. I am so proud to be the manager here and of this group of players," said Guardiola. It was City's second trophy in a little over two weeks after beating Tottenham in the League Cup final. "They are so special. To come through this season, with all the restrictions and difficulties we've faced, and show the consistency we have is remarkable. It is relentless." With coronavirus restrictions to be eased next week, there will be up to 10,000 fans in the Etihad Stadium to see City lift the trophy after their final home game with Everton on May 23. In the meantime, hundreds celebrated in the streets outside City's stadium, letting off blue flares, waving banners and joyously chanting. "It feels amazing, the greatest feeling is winning the Premier League. Better than any other in football. Love it!" City fan Graham Warner told AFP. The club joined the celebrations by unveiling a giant sky blue banner on the outside of the stadium with the slogan "CHAMPIONS" above a picture of the team celebrating. Since being taken over by the Abu Dhabi Group in September 2008, City have become the dominant force in English football, winning five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and six League Cups. This is the third time City have clinched a Premier League and League Cup double, and they also won a domestic treble in 2018/19 by adding the FA Cup. They can secure another treble later this month, having reached their first Champions League final by beating Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final last week. They will face Chelsea on May 29, with the venue likely to be switched from Istanbul to either Portugal or England so some fans can attend. "Pep Guardiola is the greatest manager in the history of English football. And hopefully we're going to cap it all in a couple of weeks with the big one," City supporter Charlie Hibber said. Manchester City captain Fernandinho is now targeting being crowned European champions for the first time. "We will enjoy this moment and we hope the fans do too," said the Brazilian midfielder. "Rest assured we will continue to do everything we can to bring the Champions League home this season." Fernandinho's City team-mates took to social media to celebrate their title triumph. Alongside a picture of him celebrating with team-mate Rodri, Aymeric Laporte wrote on Twitter: "CHAMPIONNNNES CHAMPIONNNNES OLE OLE OLE." Kevin De Bruyne posted: "Another One", while Raheem Sterling tweeted: "What's that smell?" before following with: "IT'S THE CHAMPIONS BABYYYY." Prolific Argentina forward Sergio Aguero, who is leaving at the end of the season after 10 years at the club, wrote: "Champions! Proud of this team! Five #PremierLeague titles with #ManCity." Leicester and United has been locked 1-1 at Old Trafford until Caglar Soyuncu's towering second-half header ensured City could pop the champagne with three games to spare after an uncharacteristically slow start because of the lack of a proper pre-season. City won just five of their opening 12 Premier League games but Guardiola masterminded such a superb recovery that the title race became a procession, giving him three Premier League crowns to go with three La Liga trophies with Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga. "At the start of every season, the Premier League is the most important title for us. This is the one where you have to be there every three days, playing all your rivals home and away," Guardiola said. "Only by being the very best, week in week out, can you win this competition. It is a huge success."

'Relentless': Pep hails City after fifth Premier League in nine years

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola's side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons after Manchester United were beaten 2-1 by Leicester on Tuesday.

City have sealed the silverware with three games to spare, regaining the trophy they were forced to surrender to Liverpool last season.

Their return to the summit is a tribute to Guardiola's clever reshuffle of a squad that lost several important figures in recent seasons

Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva all left the Etihad Stadium over the last four years after establishing themselves among the most influential players in City history.

Even this season, City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero has been phased out and will leave in the summer.

But rather than let the departure of the old guard serve as a death knell for City's ambitions, Guardiola has transitioned to a new crop of stars capable of keeping his side on top for years to come.

Ruben Dias, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo have emerged to play leading roles this season, supplementing core components Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ederson.

Dias has been the most important addition as the Portugal centre-back proved the perfect replacement for Kompany.

Signed from Benfica in September, the 23-year-old adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, adding physicality and leadership that brought the best out of John Stones at a time when the England defender was in danger of squandering his potential.

England playmaker Foden has long been earmarked as a future star and the 20-year-old is living up to the hype at last after a breakthrough season.

Cancelo's dynamic bursts from right or left back allowed City to out-number opponents in attacking areas, providing Guardiola with a big pay-off for keeping faith with the 26-year-old after an underwhelming first season following his move from Juventus.

Ilkay Gundogan's late flowering at age 30 has been an added bonus for Guardiola as the German midfielder's superb form and glut of goals covered for De Bruyne's various injury problems and a low-key year for Raheem Sterling.

<h2>- Defining moment -</h2>

Most encouragingly for Guardiola, only Walker and Gundogan have hit 30, giving him a group capable of a dynastic reign.

While the changing of the guard is well underway, ironically it was one of City's senior citizens who played a vital part in their revival from an uneven first half of the season.

When City were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Bromwich Albion on December 15, Guardiola admitted "I don't like this team, I don't like the way we play."

Days later, the City boss was still brooding and a lethargic training session on New Year's Eve convinced him to call on Brazilian veteran Fernandinho for help.

Fernandinho, 35, has been City's captain this season and Guardiola urged him to tell his team-mates their efforts were not acceptable.

"After that session, Pep came and spoke to me as captain, as the leader of the team. He was blunt. He told me that not everyone was at 100 percent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 percent, or you stay home. There is no negotiation," Fernandinho told the Players' Tribune.

"I arrived at the ground the next morning ahead of training, and I said, 'Tell Pep we'll start training a little later today.' It was an emergency.

"Once we got everyone together, I spoke openly. I spoke as captain. I told them what Pep had told me, that some things are inexcusable. We needed to be shaken."

It was a defining moment as City put Chelsea to the sword in their next match and haven't looked back.

"Our next game was away at Chelsea. Before the match, I thought to myself, 'If these guys don't run here, that's it, I'm done!' I was ready to lose all morale," Fernandinho said.

"But, of course, we won. Thank God, since then we've been on an amazing, record-breaking run."

Ominously for City's title rivals, Fernandinho believes the desire for more success burns as bright as ever in the new generation.

"The most important thing is when you win titles and trophies, you get that hunger to win even more. That's what we have here," he said.

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola's side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons after Manchester United were beaten 2-1 by Leicester on Tuesday. City have sealed the silverware with three games to spare, regaining the trophy they were forced to surrender to Liverpool last season. Their return to the summit is a tribute to Guardiola's clever reshuffle of a squad that lost several important figures in recent seasons Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva all left the Etihad Stadium over the last four years after establishing themselves among the most influential players in City history. Even this season, City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero has been phased out and will leave in the summer. But rather than let the departure of the old guard serve as a death knell for City's ambitions, Guardiola has transitioned to a new crop of stars capable of keeping his side on top for years to come. Ruben Dias, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo have emerged to play leading roles this season, supplementing core components Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ederson. Dias has been the most important addition as the Portugal centre-back proved the perfect replacement for Kompany. Signed from Benfica in September, the 23-year-old adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, adding physicality and leadership that brought the best out of John Stones at a time when the England defender was in danger of squandering his potential. England playmaker Foden has long been earmarked as a future star and the 20-year-old is living up to the hype at last after a breakthrough season. Cancelo's dynamic bursts from right or left back allowed City to out-number opponents in attacking areas, providing Guardiola with a big pay-off for keeping faith with the 26-year-old after an underwhelming first season following his move from Juventus. Ilkay Gundogan's late flowering at age 30 has been an added bonus for Guardiola as the German midfielder's superb form and glut of goals covered for De Bruyne's various injury problems and a low-key year for Raheem Sterling. - Defining moment - Most encouragingly for Guardiola, only Walker and Gundogan have hit 30, giving him a group capable of a dynastic reign. While the changing of the guard is well underway, ironically it was one of City's senior citizens who played a vital part in their revival from an uneven first half of the season. When City were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Bromwich Albion on December 15, Guardiola admitted "I don't like this team, I don't like the way we play." Days later, the City boss was still brooding and a lethargic training session on New Year's Eve convinced him to call on Brazilian veteran Fernandinho for help. Fernandinho, 35, has been City's captain this season and Guardiola urged him to tell his team-mates their efforts were not acceptable. "After that session, Pep came and spoke to me as captain, as the leader of the team. He was blunt. He told me that not everyone was at 100 percent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 percent, or you stay home. There is no negotiation," Fernandinho told the Players' Tribune. "I arrived at the ground the next morning ahead of training, and I said, 'Tell Pep we'll start training a little later today.' It was an emergency. "Once we got everyone together, I spoke openly. I spoke as captain. I told them what Pep had told me, that some things are inexcusable. We needed to be shaken." It was a defining moment as City put Chelsea to the sword in their next match and haven't looked back. "Our next game was away at Chelsea. Before the match, I thought to myself, 'If these guys don't run here, that's it, I'm done!' I was ready to lose all morale," Fernandinho said. "But, of course, we won. Thank God, since then we've been on an amazing, record-breaking run." Ominously for City's title rivals, Fernandinho believes the desire for more success burns as bright as ever in the new generation. "The most important thing is when you win titles and trophies, you get that hunger to win even more. That's what we have here," he said.

Man City's new generation lay foundation for golden era

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team`s performance and said they were high on confidence following Saturday`s dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City which delayed the Etihad club`s title celebrations. 
 
Raheem Sterling put City ahead in the 44th minute but Chelsea`s Hakim Ziyech equalised in the 63rd minute before Marcos Alonso completed their comeback with an injury-time winner. 
 
It was Chelsea`s second victory over City in three weeks following last month`s FA Cup semi-final win. The London club are unbeaten in their last seven games in all competitions. 
 
"It`s best to have consecutive good performances that lead to results," said Tuchel whose side are third in the league on 64 points after 35 games, three points behind second-placed Manchester United who have two games in hand. 
 
"The group and the players do everything to force the luck on our side, and we caught the momentum to have another big win. 
 
"It increases our self-confidence in a natural and healthy way because everybody knows we have to restart on Wednesday (against Arsenal in the league)." 
 
Tuchel will face Pep Guardiola`s side again later this month when they play the Champions League final on May 29. 
 
"The final is a very unique game and you cannot predict what will happen," Tuchel added. 
 
"You need to be well prepared, we will have some changes again, they will have some changes again, but we will arrive with the knowledge we are capable of beating City."

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team`s performance and said they were high on confidence following Saturday`s dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City which delayed the Etihad club`s title celebrations.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team`s performance and said they were high on confidence following Saturday`s dramatic 2-1 Premier League win at Manchester City which delayed the Etihad club`s title celebrations. Raheem Sterling put City ahead in the 44th minute but Chelsea`s Hakim Ziyech equalised in the 63rd minute before Marcos Alonso completed their comeback with an injury-time winner. It was Chelsea`s second victory over City in three weeks following last month`s FA Cup semi-final win. The London club are unbeaten in their last seven games in all competitions. "It`s best to have consecutive good performances that lead to results," said Tuchel whose side are third in the league on 64 points after 35 games, three points behind second-placed Manchester United who have two games in hand. "The group and the players do everything to force the luck on our side, and we caught the momentum to have another big win. "It increases our self-confidence in a natural and healthy way because everybody knows we have to restart on Wednesday (against Arsenal in the league)." Tuchel will face Pep Guardiola`s side again later this month when they play the Champions League final on May 29. "The final is a very unique game and you cannot predict what will happen," Tuchel added. "You need to be well prepared, we will have some changes again, they will have some changes again, but we will arrive with the knowledge we are capable of beating City."

Chelsea high on confidence after dramatic win over City: Tuchel

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero apologized for his failed attempt at a chipped penalty in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, saying it was a "bad decision".

Manchester&nbsp;City was 1-0 up when they were handed a chance to extend their lead at the break after a penalty was awarded following Billy Gilmour's challenge on Gabriel Jesus in the box.

Aguero attempted a "Panenka" penalty designed to fool the goalkeeper with a chip straight down the middle, but Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy did not commit to his dive and was able to simply stand up and catch the gentle shot.

Manchester&nbsp;City would have been crowned league champions with a win but Chelsea scored twice after the break.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I would like to apologise to my teammates, staff and supporters for missing the penalty. It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility.
— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun/status/1391121393610371073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I would like to apologize to my teammates, staff, and supporters for missing the penalty," City's all-time top scorer Aguero tweeted after the game.

"It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility."

City boss Pep Guardiola refused to criticize Aguero for his fluffed attempt and said it was wrong to argue the penalty had turned the game.

The Etihad club, who has a 13-point lead at the top of the table, could still secure the title this weekend if second-placed Manchester United lose at Aston Villa later on Sunday.

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero apologized for his failed attempt at a chipped penalty in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, saying it was a "bad decision".

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero apologized for his failed attempt at a chipped penalty in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, saying it was a "bad decision". Manchester City was 1-0 up when they were handed a chance to extend their lead at the break after a penalty was awarded following Billy Gilmour's challenge on Gabriel Jesus in the box. Aguero attempted a "Panenka" penalty designed to fool the goalkeeper with a chip straight down the middle, but Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy did not commit to his dive and was able to simply stand up and catch the gentle shot. Manchester City would have been crowned league champions with a win but Chelsea scored twice after the break. I would like to apologise to my teammates, staff and supporters for missing the penalty. It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility. — Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) May 8, 2021 × "I would like to apologize to my teammates, staff, and supporters for missing the penalty," City's all-time top scorer Aguero tweeted after the game. "It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility." City boss Pep Guardiola refused to criticize Aguero for his fluffed attempt and said it was wrong to argue the penalty had turned the game. The Etihad club, who has a 13-point lead at the top of the table, could still secure the title this weekend if second-placed Manchester United lose at Aston Villa later on Sunday.

Sergio Agüero apologizes for penalty miss after Chelsea defeat

Chelsea cannot afford to get carried away by their run to the finals of the Champions League and FA Cup and must focus on landing the two trophies to reward their recent progress, manager Thomas Tuchel said on Friday.

Chelsea visits Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday in a game that doubles as a dress rehearsal for the Champions League final on May 29.

The London club, which is looking to cement their top-four spot in the league, also has an FA Cup final against Leicester City to look forward to later this month.

Tuchel, who has overseen a remarkable upturn in fortunes since replacing Frank Lampard, has urged his players not to rest on their laurels.

"The reality is that you have to stay with your feet on the ground because if you arrive in a final the fact is you have nothing won yet," Tuchel told a news conference.

"We don't want to be participants, we want to win it. This club is for achieving finals but also winning finals and&nbsp;football&nbsp;games. This is the target.

"If we keep our momentum going, our atmosphere which is built on hard work ... this is what we have to do, to focus on the process and hopefully get the reward."

Chelsea knocked out City in the FA Cup semi-finals last month but Tuchel does not expect that result or Saturday's clash, where Guardiola's side can seal the title with a win, to have any bearing on the Champions League final in Istanbul.

"The possibility they can become champions if they win against us will not lower their determination," he said. "They had one more day to recover, they don't have to travel, it gives them a bit the upper hand.

"We saw how crucial that can be these days when they arrived at Wembley in the semi-final and we had one more day. We have to deal with it. The final in Istanbul will be pretty unique no matter what the score is tomorrow."

Chelsea cannot afford to get carried away by their run to the finals of the Champions League and FA Cup and must focus on landing the two trophies to reward their recent progress, manager Thomas Tuchel said on Friday.

Chelsea cannot afford to get carried away by their run to the finals of the Champions League and FA Cup and must focus on landing the two trophies to reward their recent progress, manager Thomas Tuchel said on Friday. Chelsea visits Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday in a game that doubles as a dress rehearsal for the Champions League final on May 29. The London club, which is looking to cement their top-four spot in the league, also has an FA Cup final against Leicester City to look forward to later this month. Tuchel, who has overseen a remarkable upturn in fortunes since replacing Frank Lampard, has urged his players not to rest on their laurels. "The reality is that you have to stay with your feet on the ground because if you arrive in a final the fact is you have nothing won yet," Tuchel told a news conference. "We don't want to be participants, we want to win it. This club is for achieving finals but also winning finals and football games. This is the target. "If we keep our momentum going, our atmosphere which is built on hard work ... this is what we have to do, to focus on the process and hopefully get the reward." Chelsea knocked out City in the FA Cup semi-finals last month but Tuchel does not expect that result or Saturday's clash, where Guardiola's side can seal the title with a win, to have any bearing on the Champions League final in Istanbul. "The possibility they can become champions if they win against us will not lower their determination," he said. "They had one more day to recover, they don't have to travel, it gives them a bit the upper hand. "We saw how crucial that can be these days when they arrived at Wembley in the semi-final and we had one more day. We have to deal with it. The final in Istanbul will be pretty unique no matter what the score is tomorrow."

Thomas Tuchel urges Chelsea to stay grounded amid finals hype

The status of the Champions League final on May 29 between Manchester City and Chelsea in Istanbul was thrown into doubt on Friday after the UK government placed Turkey on the travel red list with Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling for the showdown to come to Britain.

British transport minister Grant Shapps said that travel to red list countries was not allowed except for "the most extreme circumstances" and anyone returning from a red list country has to enter and pay for compulsory hotel quarantine.

"It does mean that fans should not travel to Turkey," said Shapps, who raised the possibility of the match being moved to England.

"The FA (Football&nbsp;Association) are in discussions with UEFA. We are open to hosting but it is ultimately a decision for UEFA," he added.

"The Champions League is the pinnacle of European club&nbsp;football," Johnson was quoted as saying by The Sun newspaper on Friday.

"And with two English teams contesting the final, it would be a great shame if fans were unable to attend. It would be brilliant to host the game here if we can. I want to help supporters of both clubs see their team in action."

UEFA said they would take time to reflect on the UK government's decision. The FA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"UK officials seem to insist but we are moving ahead according to UEFA directions and statements. There were no updates on this from an official channel, we will be hosting the final in Istanbul," a Turkish&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Federation spokesman said.

The issue of whether players would be granted an exemption from the quarantine was not clear but a 14 day quarantine would impact players involved in UEFA's Euro 2020 which starts on June 11.

Turkey has in recent weeks ranked fourth globally in terms of daily COVID-19 cases, prompting a nationwide lockdown this month until May 17. The move has started to curb the outbreak, with daily cases falling to around 20,000 on Friday from a peak above 63,000 in mid-April.

Media reports have said that Turkish&nbsp;football&nbsp;authorities had been hoping to allow tickets for at least 4,000 fans of each team as part of a 25,000 capacity crowd at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium.

The status of the Champions League final on May 29 between Manchester City and Chelsea in Istanbul was thrown into doubt on Friday after the UK government placed Turkey on the travel red list with Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling for the showdown to come to Britain.

The status of the Champions League final on May 29 between Manchester City and Chelsea in Istanbul was thrown into doubt on Friday after the UK government placed Turkey on the travel red list with Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling for the showdown to come to Britain. British transport minister Grant Shapps said that travel to red list countries was not allowed except for "the most extreme circumstances" and anyone returning from a red list country has to enter and pay for compulsory hotel quarantine. "It does mean that fans should not travel to Turkey," said Shapps, who raised the possibility of the match being moved to England. "The FA (Football Association) are in discussions with UEFA. We are open to hosting but it is ultimately a decision for UEFA," he added. "The Champions League is the pinnacle of European club football," Johnson was quoted as saying by The Sun newspaper on Friday. "And with two English teams contesting the final, it would be a great shame if fans were unable to attend. It would be brilliant to host the game here if we can. I want to help supporters of both clubs see their team in action." UEFA said they would take time to reflect on the UK government's decision. The FA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. "UK officials seem to insist but we are moving ahead according to UEFA directions and statements. There were no updates on this from an official channel, we will be hosting the final in Istanbul," a Turkish Football Federation spokesman said. The issue of whether players would be granted an exemption from the quarantine was not clear but a 14 day quarantine would impact players involved in UEFA's Euro 2020 which starts on June 11. Turkey has in recent weeks ranked fourth globally in terms of daily COVID-19 cases, prompting a nationwide lockdown this month until May 17. The move has started to curb the outbreak, with daily cases falling to around 20,000 on Friday from a peak above 63,000 in mid-April. Media reports have said that Turkish football authorities had been hoping to allow tickets for at least 4,000 fans of each team as part of a 25,000 capacity crowd at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium.

Champions League final venue uncertain after Turkey on the travel red list

Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez said the pressure will be on Chelsea when the sides meet in a high-stakes Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Manchester&nbsp;City will be crowned champions for the fifth time in 10 years with three games to spare if they beat fourth-placed Chelsea, who are threatened by West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool.

They will also wrap up the title on Sunday if Manchester United loses at Aston Villa.

"We want to win to become champions but they also want to win because they want to finish fourth," Algeria forward Mahrez, who scored three of his team's four goals in a 4-1 aggregate victory against Paris St Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, told L'Equipe on Friday.

"The pressure will be more on them."

Manchester City will then turn their sights towards the May 29 Champions League final, where they will meet Chelsea again, with Mahrez facing his former Leicester teammate Ngolo Kante.

Both players were still in the lower divisions in France in their early 20s, with Kante playing in the third division in the 2012-13 season and Mahrez playing in Ligue 2 from 2011-14.

"I've always had a lot of ambitions, I've always thought I would be able to score in the quarter and semi-finals of the Champions League," said Mahrez.

"It's true that there are players like Kylian&nbsp;Mbappe who manage to do that when they're 17. But some of the players of my generation who were playing in Ligue 1 at 20 have since ended their career.

"That's when your career ends that you can assess it."

Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez said the pressure will be on Chelsea when the sides meet in a high-stakes Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez said the pressure will be on Chelsea when the sides meet in a high-stakes Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Manchester City will be crowned champions for the fifth time in 10 years with three games to spare if they beat fourth-placed Chelsea, who are threatened by West Ham United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool. They will also wrap up the title on Sunday if Manchester United loses at Aston Villa. "We want to win to become champions but they also want to win because they want to finish fourth," Algeria forward Mahrez, who scored three of his team's four goals in a 4-1 aggregate victory against Paris St Germain in the Champions League semi-finals, told L'Equipe on Friday. "The pressure will be more on them." Manchester City will then turn their sights towards the May 29 Champions League final, where they will meet Chelsea again, with Mahrez facing his former Leicester teammate Ngolo Kante. Both players were still in the lower divisions in France in their early 20s, with Kante playing in the third division in the 2012-13 season and Mahrez playing in Ligue 2 from 2011-14. "I've always had a lot of ambitions, I've always thought I would be able to score in the quarter and semi-finals of the Champions League," said Mahrez. "It's true that there are players like Kylian Mbappe who manage to do that when they're 17. But some of the players of my generation who were playing in Ligue 1 at 20 have since ended their career. "That's when your career ends that you can assess it."

Pressure is on Chelsea, says Manchester City's Riyad Mahrez

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City's first-ever&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final had been five years in the making after Riyad Mahrez's double saw off Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on Tuesday to seal a 4-1 semi-final aggregate win.

The City will look to set the seal on a third Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;title in the past four seasons in the coming days as they remain on course for a treble, having already lifted the&nbsp;League&nbsp;Cup.

But their previous four&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaigns under Guardiola ended in anguish before the semi-final stage.

Guardiola has won the competition twice before as a coach during his time at Barcelona.

However, the Catalan has also endured a decade of disappointment in Europe's premier club competition since.

"It is for all of us and the club. I'm incredibly proud," said Guardiola. "Getting to the final now makes sense of what we have done in the past four or five years. Every day these guys have been consistent and this is remarkable."

Mahrez's goal also decided the first leg and the Algerian, who grew up in the Parisian suburbs, haunted his home town team again with two clinical finishes early in each half.

The final in Istanbul on May 29 against Real Madrid or Chelsea is the culmination of City's rise since an Abu Dhabi takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes.

Meanwhile, four years on from making Neymar and Kylian Mbappe the world's two most expensive players, PSG's wait for a first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;title goes on.

Mbappe could only watch on from the stands due to a calf injury as, just like in last week's first leg, his side imploded after an excellent first-half performance.

The visitors were left to rue huge missed chances by Marquinhos and Angel Di Maria in between Mahrez's strikes before Di Maria lashed out at Fernandinho to leave PSG down to 10 men for the final 20 minutes.

"We started really well, creating chances and dominating Manchester City," said PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino. "That's not easy. Not many teams can dominate a team like Manchester City."

However, the Argentine, who had to come onto the pitch to calm his players after Di Maria saw red, admitted his side's indiscipline had cost them.

Idrissa Gueye was also sent off late in the first leg for a shocking challenge on Ilkay Gundogan.

"Over the 180 minutes, for 40 or 45 minutes we played with 10 men," added Pochettino. "That's a massive advantage."

The French&nbsp;champions&nbsp;thought they had an early penalty to get back in the tie when Oleksandr Zinchenko was penalised for handball.

However, Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers rightly reversed his initial decision on seeing a replay of the ball bouncing off the Ukrainian's shoulder.

Zinchenko was heavily involved again when the opening goal arrived at the other end.

He raced onto City goalkeeper Ederson's thunderous long pass into the PSG area. Zinchenko's cut-back found Kevin De Bruyne and after the&nbsp;Belgian's shot was blocked, Mahrez pounced to slot home on his weaker right foot.

The tie was still far from over as PSG penned City back and should have been at least level on the night before half-time.

Marquinhos has made a habit of scoring big&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;goals and the Brazilian was inches away from another when his looping header came back off the crossbar.

Ederson then nearly undid his good work as Di Maria intercepted his hurried throw to Bernardo Silva and flashed a shot inches wide with the Brazilian 'keeper stranded outside his goal.

<h2>Neymar nullified&nbsp;</h2>

Pochettino will wonder what could have been had Mbappe been fit with his replacement Icardi ineffective.

Neymar only ever showed flashes of his brilliance with City's impressive defence led by Ruben Dias able to focus on stopping the Brazilian without Mbappe to worry about.

Guardiola's men have always shown enough quality going forward and a clinical counter-attack killed off the tie in 63 minutes.

De Bruyne freed Phil Foden down the left and his inch-perfect cross was blasted high past, Keylor Navas, by Mahrez.

In a repeat of the first leg, PSG's discipline went with their hopes of reaching the final.

Di Maria needlessly stamped on Fernandinho to be shown a straight red card before Marco Verratti was lucky to escape seeing a second yellow.

"They lost their nerve and started to kick us," said Mahrez, rubbing salt in PSG wounds. "After the red card it was good for us."

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City's first-ever Champions League final had been five years in the making after Riyad Mahrez's double saw off Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on Tuesday to seal a 4-1 semi-final aggregate win.

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City's first-ever Champions League final had been five years in the making after Riyad Mahrez's double saw off Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on Tuesday to seal a 4-1 semi-final aggregate win. The City will look to set the seal on a third Premier League title in the past four seasons in the coming days as they remain on course for a treble, having already lifted the League Cup. But their previous four Champions League campaigns under Guardiola ended in anguish before the semi-final stage. Guardiola has won the competition twice before as a coach during his time at Barcelona. However, the Catalan has also endured a decade of disappointment in Europe's premier club competition since. "It is for all of us and the club. I'm incredibly proud," said Guardiola. "Getting to the final now makes sense of what we have done in the past four or five years. Every day these guys have been consistent and this is remarkable." Mahrez's goal also decided the first leg and the Algerian, who grew up in the Parisian suburbs, haunted his home town team again with two clinical finishes early in each half. The final in Istanbul on May 29 against Real Madrid or Chelsea is the culmination of City's rise since an Abu Dhabi takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes. Meanwhile, four years on from making Neymar and Kylian Mbappe the world's two most expensive players, PSG's wait for a first Champions League title goes on. Mbappe could only watch on from the stands due to a calf injury as, just like in last week's first leg, his side imploded after an excellent first-half performance. The visitors were left to rue huge missed chances by Marquinhos and Angel Di Maria in between Mahrez's strikes before Di Maria lashed out at Fernandinho to leave PSG down to 10 men for the final 20 minutes. "We started really well, creating chances and dominating Manchester City," said PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino. "That's not easy. Not many teams can dominate a team like Manchester City." However, the Argentine, who had to come onto the pitch to calm his players after Di Maria saw red, admitted his side's indiscipline had cost them. Idrissa Gueye was also sent off late in the first leg for a shocking challenge on Ilkay Gundogan. "Over the 180 minutes, for 40 or 45 minutes we played with 10 men," added Pochettino. "That's a massive advantage." The French champions thought they had an early penalty to get back in the tie when Oleksandr Zinchenko was penalised for handball. However, Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers rightly reversed his initial decision on seeing a replay of the ball bouncing off the Ukrainian's shoulder. Zinchenko was heavily involved again when the opening goal arrived at the other end. He raced onto City goalkeeper Ederson's thunderous long pass into the PSG area. Zinchenko's cut-back found Kevin De Bruyne and after the Belgian's shot was blocked, Mahrez pounced to slot home on his weaker right foot. The tie was still far from over as PSG penned City back and should have been at least level on the night before half-time. Marquinhos has made a habit of scoring big Champions League goals and the Brazilian was inches away from another when his looping header came back off the crossbar. Ederson then nearly undid his good work as Di Maria intercepted his hurried throw to Bernardo Silva and flashed a shot inches wide with the Brazilian 'keeper stranded outside his goal. Neymar nullified Pochettino will wonder what could have been had Mbappe been fit with his replacement Icardi ineffective. Neymar only ever showed flashes of his brilliance with City's impressive defence led by Ruben Dias able to focus on stopping the Brazilian without Mbappe to worry about. Guardiola's men have always shown enough quality going forward and a clinical counter-attack killed off the tie in 63 minutes. De Bruyne freed Phil Foden down the left and his inch-perfect cross was blasted high past, Keylor Navas, by Mahrez. In a repeat of the first leg, PSG's discipline went with their hopes of reaching the final. Di Maria needlessly stamped on Fernandinho to be shown a straight red card before Marco Verratti was lucky to escape seeing a second yellow. "They lost their nerve and started to kick us," said Mahrez, rubbing salt in PSG wounds. "After the red card it was good for us."

Mahrez double takes Man City into first Champions League final

Manchester City reached their first Champions League final as Riyad Mahrez's double sealed a 2-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday's semi-final second leg.

City, 4-1 winners on aggregate, will play Chelsea or Real Madrid in the final in Istanbul.

Here, AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from the Etihad Stadium clash:

<h2>Guardiola makes his point</h2>

Criticised for meddling with Manchester City's tactics with disastrous results in last season's shock Champions League quarter-final defeat against Lyon, Pep Guardiola enjoyed a moment of sweet redemption as his astute game-plan laid the foundations for their historic victory.

With a 2-1 lead to defend from the first leg in Paris, Guardiola needed to come up with the right approach to ensure his team didn't let PSG back into the tie.

Some believed Guardiola's desire to prove he could win the Champions League without Lionel Messi had affected him in the latter stages of the competition in the past as he tinkered with team line-ups unnecessarily.

But this time he struck just the right note, with a counter-attacking approach that set City up to take advantage of PSG's need to chase the game.

It worked to perfection with Riyad Mahrez's opening goal coming after a long pass from Ederson exploited the gaps left by PSG at the back.

"We approach this game like any other game," Guardiola had said ahead of the second leg, but even he knew the 289th match of his City reign was unlike any that had come before.

Guardiola last won the Champions League when he lifted the trophy for the second time in his Barcelona reign in 2011.

He hadn't been to the final since then, with City's Champions League campaigns littered with agonising exits in the Guardiola era.

At last, Guardiola and City can put their chequered European history behind them as they chase a remarkable Premier League, Champions League and League Cup treble.

<h2>Rock-solid Dias leads the way</h2>

Ruben Dias has made a superb impact since arriving at Manchester City from Benfica last year and this was the Portugal centre-back's finest moment yet.

After initially failing to fill the void left by Vincent Kompany's exit in 2019, City have finally found a worthy successor for the inspirational Belgian.

Dias was rock solid as PSG fought to get back into the tie, making a series of brave blocks and well-timed interceptions.

Twice, he denied PSG by putting his body on the line without a second thought, but the 23-year-old's tour de force came in the 62nd minute.

Ander Herrera's volley was flying towards goal, but Dias flung himself in the way, taking the ball flush on the face to stop the shot testing City keeper Ederson.

Dias wasn't the only defensive hero for City and when Oleksandr Zinchenko made a last-ditch block to deny Neymar inside the City area, John Stones hugged the left-back with unbridled joy -- a celebration that set the stage for the party to come at the final whistle.

<h2>PSG blunted by Mbappe injury</h2>

The glum look on Kylian Mbappe's face as he sat huddled on the PSG bench encapsulated a miserable evening for the France star and his team.

Mbappe wasn't fit to start after suffering a calf injury and he remained an unused substitute as PSG's final hopes faded away.

Brazil star Neymar had shouldered the burden when Mbappe was absent in the past, with PSG winning all five of their previous games under Mauricio Pochettino without the 22-year-old.

But Neymar was hounded into submission by City's tenacious defence and Mauro Icardi, starting in Mbappe's place, was unable to replicate the threat posed by the World Cup-winning striker, who has 37 goals in 43 appearances this season.

PSG had scored three at Manchester United, four at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Champions League this season.

But five of those 10 goals came from Mbappe and his absence made it impossible for PSG to overturn the first-leg deficit.

Manchester City reached their first Champions League final as Riyad Mahrez's double sealed a 2-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday's semi-final second leg.

Manchester City reached their first Champions League final as Riyad Mahrez's double sealed a 2-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday's semi-final second leg. City, 4-1 winners on aggregate, will play Chelsea or Real Madrid in the final in Istanbul. Here, AFP Sport looks at three things we learned from the Etihad Stadium clash: Guardiola makes his point Criticised for meddling with Manchester City's tactics with disastrous results in last season's shock Champions League quarter-final defeat against Lyon, Pep Guardiola enjoyed a moment of sweet redemption as his astute game-plan laid the foundations for their historic victory. With a 2-1 lead to defend from the first leg in Paris, Guardiola needed to come up with the right approach to ensure his team didn't let PSG back into the tie. Some believed Guardiola's desire to prove he could win the Champions League without Lionel Messi had affected him in the latter stages of the competition in the past as he tinkered with team line-ups unnecessarily. But this time he struck just the right note, with a counter-attacking approach that set City up to take advantage of PSG's need to chase the game. It worked to perfection with Riyad Mahrez's opening goal coming after a long pass from Ederson exploited the gaps left by PSG at the back. "We approach this game like any other game," Guardiola had said ahead of the second leg, but even he knew the 289th match of his City reign was unlike any that had come before. Guardiola last won the Champions League when he lifted the trophy for the second time in his Barcelona reign in 2011. He hadn't been to the final since then, with City's Champions League campaigns littered with agonising exits in the Guardiola era. At last, Guardiola and City can put their chequered European history behind them as they chase a remarkable Premier League, Champions League and League Cup treble. Rock-solid Dias leads the way Ruben Dias has made a superb impact since arriving at Manchester City from Benfica last year and this was the Portugal centre-back's finest moment yet. After initially failing to fill the void left by Vincent Kompany's exit in 2019, City have finally found a worthy successor for the inspirational Belgian. Dias was rock solid as PSG fought to get back into the tie, making a series of brave blocks and well-timed interceptions. Twice, he denied PSG by putting his body on the line without a second thought, but the 23-year-old's tour de force came in the 62nd minute. Ander Herrera's volley was flying towards goal, but Dias flung himself in the way, taking the ball flush on the face to stop the shot testing City keeper Ederson. Dias wasn't the only defensive hero for City and when Oleksandr Zinchenko made a last-ditch block to deny Neymar inside the City area, John Stones hugged the left-back with unbridled joy -- a celebration that set the stage for the party to come at the final whistle. PSG blunted by Mbappe injury The glum look on Kylian Mbappe's face as he sat huddled on the PSG bench encapsulated a miserable evening for the France star and his team. Mbappe wasn't fit to start after suffering a calf injury and he remained an unused substitute as PSG's final hopes faded away. Brazil star Neymar had shouldered the burden when Mbappe was absent in the past, with PSG winning all five of their previous games under Mauricio Pochettino without the 22-year-old. But Neymar was hounded into submission by City's tenacious defence and Mauro Icardi, starting in Mbappe's place, was unable to replicate the threat posed by the World Cup-winning striker, who has 37 goals in 43 appearances this season. PSG had scored three at Manchester United, four at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich in the Champions League this season. But five of those 10 goals came from Mbappe and his absence made it impossible for PSG to overturn the first-leg deficit.

Champions League: Three things we learned from Man City vs Paris Saint-Germain

Manchester City are on the brink of a third Premier League title in four seasons after a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday secured with goals by Sergio Aguero and Ferran Torres.

Chelsea's 2-0 home win over Fulham cemented them in fourth place while leaving their London rivals facing almost certain relegation and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion took a massive leap towards safety by beating visiting Leeds United 2-0.

Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe suffered a blow as they went down 2-1 at home to Aston Villa.

City scored twice in 83 seconds in the second half to notch an 11th successive away league win and will be confirmed as champions if Liverpool win at Manchester United on Sunday.

Pep Guardiola's side have 80 points with four games left, while second-placed United are on 67 with five to play.

Leicester City, who drew 1-1 with 10-man Southampton on Friday, are third on 63 points. Fourth-placed Chelsea have 61, six ahead of West Ham United who travel to Burnley on Monday.

"We can start to put the champagne in the fridge -- not to open yet but to think about it," said Guardiola, whose side face Paris St Germain on Tuesday in the home leg of their Champions League semi-final with a 2-1 lead.

"The Premier League is already there -- it is in our hands. We need one more victory, two more points."

MASSIVE WEEK

Chelsea, who like City face a massive week with a Champions League semi-final return against Real Madrid after a 1-1 draw away, had a Kai Havertz double to thank for beating Fulham.

Germany forward Havertz. who has struggled to justify his 71 million pounds ($98.08 million) price tag from Bayer Leverkusen, doubled his Premier League tally in the game against Fulham.

"Kai played double striker with Timo (Werner) and the two had a good connection and were always dangerous," Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said. "We need him spot on to achieve our goals."

Fulham are nine points behind fourth-bottom Newcastle United after a fifth defeat in six matches although manager Scott Parker refused to admit staying up was a lost cause.

"I understand from the outside people will laugh and think I'm crazy, but there's no other option for me," he said.

"While it's the case that we can (survive), that's our main focus from now until the end."

Brighton breathed a sigh of relief as they moved 10 points clear of the drop zone by beating Leeds on the south-coast.

Pascal Gross converted a penalty in the 14th minute and Danny Welbeck sealed the win with a late goal that lifted Brighton to 14th in the standings.

"It was one of our best performances. You have to match Leeds for their effort and honesty and I felt we did that really well," Brighton manager Graham Potter said.

Anwar El Ghazi's superb late curler earned Villa the points at Goodison Park -- leaving Everton frustrated and nine points behind Chelsea albeit with a game in hand.

Ollie Watkins opened the scoring for Villa but Dominic Calvert-Lewin soon headed an equaliser.

Everton have won one of their last 10 home league games and that looks like it could cost them a European place.

Manchester City are on the brink of a third Premier League title in four seasons after a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday secured with goals by Sergio Aguero and Ferran Torres.

Manchester City are on the brink of a third Premier League title in four seasons after a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Saturday secured with goals by Sergio Aguero and Ferran Torres. Chelsea's 2-0 home win over Fulham cemented them in fourth place while leaving their London rivals facing almost certain relegation and Brighton & Hove Albion took a massive leap towards safety by beating visiting Leeds United 2-0. Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe suffered a blow as they went down 2-1 at home to Aston Villa. City scored twice in 83 seconds in the second half to notch an 11th successive away league win and will be confirmed as champions if Liverpool win at Manchester United on Sunday. Pep Guardiola's side have 80 points with four games left, while second-placed United are on 67 with five to play. Leicester City, who drew 1-1 with 10-man Southampton on Friday, are third on 63 points. Fourth-placed Chelsea have 61, six ahead of West Ham United who travel to Burnley on Monday. "We can start to put the champagne in the fridge -- not to open yet but to think about it," said Guardiola, whose side face Paris St Germain on Tuesday in the home leg of their Champions League semi-final with a 2-1 lead. "The Premier League is already there -- it is in our hands. We need one more victory, two more points." MASSIVE WEEK Chelsea, who like City face a massive week with a Champions League semi-final return against Real Madrid after a 1-1 draw away, had a Kai Havertz double to thank for beating Fulham. Germany forward Havertz. who has struggled to justify his 71 million pounds ($98.08 million) price tag from Bayer Leverkusen, doubled his Premier League tally in the game against Fulham. "Kai played double striker with Timo (Werner) and the two had a good connection and were always dangerous," Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said. "We need him spot on to achieve our goals." Fulham are nine points behind fourth-bottom Newcastle United after a fifth defeat in six matches although manager Scott Parker refused to admit staying up was a lost cause. "I understand from the outside people will laugh and think I'm crazy, but there's no other option for me," he said. "While it's the case that we can (survive), that's our main focus from now until the end." Brighton breathed a sigh of relief as they moved 10 points clear of the drop zone by beating Leeds on the south-coast. Pascal Gross converted a penalty in the 14th minute and Danny Welbeck sealed the win with a late goal that lifted Brighton to 14th in the standings. "It was one of our best performances. You have to match Leeds for their effort and honesty and I felt we did that really well," Brighton manager Graham Potter said. Anwar El Ghazi's superb late curler earned Villa the points at Goodison Park -- leaving Everton frustrated and nine points behind Chelsea albeit with a game in hand. Ollie Watkins opened the scoring for Villa but Dominic Calvert-Lewin soon headed an equaliser. Everton have won one of their last 10 home league games and that looks like it could cost them a European place.

Premier League: Manchester City on brink of title, Chelsea bolster top-four hopes

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