Phil Foden’s goal helped Manchester City secure their fourth consecutive Premier League title under Pep Guardiola with a 3-1 victory over West Ham.
Phil Foden’s sensational first-half brace propelled Manchester City to a resounding 3-1 victory over West Ham on the final day of the season, securing an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title for the club. Following their 2-0 triumph over Tottenham earlier in the week, Pep Guardiola’s side held a crucial two-point advantage over Arsenal and knew that a win at a sun-drenched Etihad Stadium would seal their sixth English crown under the esteemed manager.
Foden, who was named the Premier League player of the season, showcased his brilliance with two magical finishes in the opening 20 minutes (2′ and 18′), alleviating any nerves within the City camp. Despite their dominance and relentless pressure on the visitors, City failed to find a quick third goal. However, Mohammed Kudus produced a stunning overhead kick (42′) to give West Ham a glimmer of hope amidst their defensive struggles.
Any hopes of a comeback were swiftly extinguished when Rodri unleashed a thunderous strike from 18 yards (59′), prompting jubilant celebrations from Guardiola, his coaching staff, and the home fans. City clinched the title by a margin of two points, with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal finishing in second place after a 2-1 victory over Everton at the Emirates.
Guardiola’s trophy haul at City now stands at an impressive four Premier League titles, second only to the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, who won 13 with Manchester United between 1993 and 2013. City will now turn their attention to the FA Cup final against rivals Manchester United at Wembley, aiming to complete the domestic double after their triumph in last year’s final.
One player who epitomizes City’s season of dominance is Rodri. The Spanish midfielder scored the crucial third goal, ensuring that he ended the season unbeaten in the Premier League. In fact, City have not lost a league match when Rodri has been in the team for the past 50 games. When he combines his talents with Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, and Bernardo Silva, City become an unstoppable force in world football.
The standout performer of the match was undoubtedly Phil Foden. The 23-year-old England playmaker displayed remarkable authority and maturity in City’s midfield throughout the campaign. With 19 goals and eight assists to his name, Foden played a pivotal role in dismantling West Ham with his two majestic finishes, capping off a magnificent season for both himself and his club. Foden now boasts an incredible six Premier League titles with City, and there is no doubt that he has the potential to achieve even more if his hunger for success remains unwavering.
Player Ratings:
Manchester City: Ortega 7, Walker 7, Dias 7, Akanji 7, Gvardiol 7, Rodri 8, De Bruyne 8, Silva 8, Foden 9, Doku 8, Haaland 6
Subs: Ake 6, Kovacic 6
West Ham United: Areola 8, Coufal 6, Zouma 6, Mavropanos 6, Cresswell 6, Emerson 6, Ward-Prowse 6, Soucek 6, Paqueta 6, Kudus 8, Antonio 6
Subs: Alvarez 6, Earthy 6, Ings 6
In the match highlights, Foden opened the scoring with a powerful finish from outside the box (2′), before adding a second goal with a composed left-footed strike from 14 yards (18′). Kudus provided a moment of brilliance for West Ham with a stunning overhead kick (42′), but Rodri sealed the victory for City with a clinical shot from the edge of the box (59′). West Ham had a goal ruled out due to a handball by Tomás Soucek (88′), and City were crowned champions in the closing minutes of added time (90+5′).
It was a historic day for Manchester City as they secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title, becoming the first club to achieve this remarkable feat. Guardiola and David Moyes, West Ham’s manager, embraced during the closing moments of the match, symbolizing the respect between the two managers. City’s triumph was well-deserved, solidifying their status as the dominant force in English football.