“Man City Wasn’t Always a Big Club” – Former Manchester City Player makes Bold Claim
Former Manchester City academy graduate Tosin Adarabioyo shares surprising comments about the club's rise to fame, sparking debate about its status as a football giant.
Former Manchester City defender Tosin Adarabioyo recently made headlines after commenting on his old club. Now playing for Chelsea, Adarabioyo suggested that Manchester City wasn’t always the football giant they are today. His comments have sparked debates about what truly makes a club “big.”
Adarabioyo joined Manchester City’s academy when he was just five years old. He spent 18 years at the club but only made eight appearances for the senior team. In 2020, he moved to Fulham for a reported fee of £2 million to get more playing time.
After four years at Fulham, Adarabioyo made a free transfer to Chelsea in the summer of 2024. He now plays alongside fellow ex-City academy player Cole Palmer at Stamford Bridge.
During a recent press conference, Adarabioyo was asked about playing for a “big club” again. His response surprised many:
“Most definitely. Like you said, I was at Man City for 18 years from the age of five, which wasn’t always a big club, by the way.”
Tosin Adarabioyo: "I was at Man City for 18 years, from the age of five. It wasn't always a big club by the way…" [@HaytersTV] pic.twitter.com/HgRRh8mvVY
— CFC-Blues (@CFCBlues_com) November 28, 2024
This statement implies that City only became a top club in recent years, despite their current success.
While Adarabioyo’s comment may seem bold, it highlights the club’s journey. Manchester City’s transformation began in 2008 when Sheikh Mansour bought the club. Before that, City was not as successful as they are today.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, City faced many challenges, including relegation to lower leagues. However, since the takeover, the club has won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and even the UEFA Champions League.
Despite their struggles in the past, City always had a loyal fanbase. Their supporters filled stadiums even during tough times, showing the club’s strong connection with its fans.
Interestingly, Chelsea’s rise is similar to City’s. Before Roman Abramovich bought the club in 2003, Chelsea wasn’t the big club they are today. Like City, Chelsea’s success grew with investment and strong management.
Now, Adarabioyo plays for a Chelsea team that is also considered a “big club” due to their achievements over the past two decades.
Adarabioyo’s comments raise an important question: What defines a “big club”? Is it history, trophies, fan support, or financial power? Many believe it’s a mix of all these factors.
Manchester City may not have had a trophy-filled past like Liverpool or Manchester United, but their recent success cannot be ignored. Similarly, Chelsea’s achievements in the last 20 years have secured their place among the top clubs in Europe.
Ultimately, both Manchester City and Chelsea are now recognized as giants in English football. Their journeys show that with the right investments and management, any club can rise to the top.
