In a straightforward manner, Manchester City celebrated their latest Premier League title triumph with a 1-0 victory over Chelsea on Sunday.
Having already secured the title due to Arsenal’s loss to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, Pep Guardiola’s Treble-chasing side took to the field at the Etihad Stadium amidst a festive atmosphere.
Despite fielding a much-changed lineup, City delighted their fans with an early goal from Julian Alvarez.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 21, 2023
While Chelsea had a few bright moments, City never seemed to relinquish control, although they couldn’t replicate the intensity they displayed in their midweek victory over Real Madrid. The fans were in a celebratory mood, basking in the sunshine and even performing the famous ‘Poznan’ celebration on multiple occasions.
As City entered the field, they were honored with a guard of honour from their opponents. The Blues were left chasing shadows as City confidently moved the ball around, highlighting the gap between the two teams.
It was only a matter of time before the opening goal arrived, and it came in the 12th minute. City won possession in midfield, and Cole Palmer found Alvarez in front of the goal.
The Argentinian World Cup winner took a touch before unleashing a powerful shot across Kepa Arrizabalaga, marking City’s 100th home goal in all competitions this season.
Chelsea struggled to match City’s pace and precision, mirroring their disappointing end to the season under temporary manager Frank Lampard. Former City forward Raheem Sterling attempted to rally the Blues, making promising runs behind the City defense, but he failed to find a teammate on one occasion and had his shot saved by Stefan Ortega on another.
Conor Gallagher came close to equalizing when he headed against the post from a cross by Lewis Hall.
Overall, it was a dominant display by Manchester City, who showcased their superiority and celebrated their fifth Premier League title in six seasons. Chelsea, on the other hand, were left facing a challenging afternoon and a reminder of the gap they aspire to bridge.
We love you, Johnny Stones! 💙 pic.twitter.com/3JEuxxPjek
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 21, 2023
Yet City always seemed in command and Phil Foden was only narrowly off-target with an attempted chip and Kalvin Phillips, finally making his first league start for the champions, blasted wide.
Phillips was inches away from getting on the scoresheet after the break when he met a Riyad Mahrez free-kick with a firm header but it rebounded off the foot of the post.
At the other end, Hall and Sterling both shot at Ortega. Sterling had another effort cleared off the line by City substitute John Stones, although an offside flag was raised anyway.
Alvarez thought he had claimed a second with just under 20 minutes remaining but Mahrez controlled the ball with his arm before teeing up the Argentinian.
With it being City’s last home match of the season, star pair Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne were given a run-out in the latter stages. Rodri also came off the bench as City closed out their 12th successive Premier League win.
Thousands of fans invaded the pitch after the final whistle, delaying the trophy presentation.
After the celebrations subside, City have further league games at Brighton and Brentford before they play the FA Cup and Champions League finals next month.