The Athletic FC Podcast Transfers that shook the world: Tevez to Man City
Jul 11, 2025
In this exciting discussion, senior football writers Andy Mitten and Oli Kay dive into Carlos Tevez's iconic transfer from Manchester United to Manchester City in 2009. They explore the controversy surrounding the move, marking a pivotal shift in Manchester's football rivalry. The duo unpacks Tevez's role in the power dynamics post-Abu Dhabi takeover and the financial motivations at play. They also reflect on how this transfer transformed City into a competitive force, reshaping the landscape of Premier League football forever.
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Tevez's Transfer Shifted Power
- Tevez's move to Manchester City symbolized the growing ambition of City to challenge United's Premier League dominance.
- His signing was a key moment marking City's rise as serious competitors in English football.
The Infamous Welcome Billboard
- When Tevez joined City, a provocative billboard was placed showing him in City's colors, irritating United fans.
- The billboard was a deliberate statement by City to announce their arrival as a serious threat.
Ferguson's View on City Rivalry
- Sir Alex Ferguson was deeply annoyed and dismissive of City's new money and marketing tactics.
- He saw City as a 'small club with a small mentality' obsessed with United, not a football threat initially.