1. Geovanni (2007/08)
Before Manchester City’s financial revolution, Brazilian attacking midfielder Geovanni was a fleeting but memorable presence. Signed in 2007, he became a cult hero by scoring the only goal in a 1-0 Manchester derby win against United in 2007. His flair and long-range shooting, including a stunning strike for Hull City after leaving City, showcased his potential. Geovanni’s brief stint, with just 23 appearances and three goals, is often overshadowed by the club’s later star-studded signings, but his derby heroics remain a fond memory for early-2000s City fans.
2. Robinho (2008–10)
Robinho’s arrival at Manchester City on September 1, 2008, was a seismic moment. Signed from Real Madrid for a club-record £32.5 million on the same day the Abu Dhabi United Group took over, the Brazilian winger was a statement of intent. At 24, Robinho was a global star, famed for his silky dribbling, audacious stepovers, and goal-scoring prowess from his days at Santos and Real Madrid. His transfer, snatching him from under Chelsea’s nose, sent shockwaves through football.
3. Owen Hargreaves (2011/12)
Known for his stellar career at Bayern Munich and Manchester United, Owen Hargreaves’ brief stint at Manchester City in the 2011/12 season is often forgotten. Signed on a free transfer after an injury-plagued spell at United, Hargreaves made just four appearances due to persistent fitness issues. His move across Manchester disappointed United fans, but his limited impact at City—despite being part of a title-winning squad—means he’s rarely mentioned in the club’s modern narrative.
4. Jerome Boateng (2010/11)
Before becoming a cornerstone of Bayern Munich’s defense and Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph, Jerome Boateng had a forgettable season at Manchester City. Signed in 2010, he made 24 appearances, often playing out of position at right-back, which led to inconsistent performances. Despite winning an FA Cup medal, Boateng’s time at City is a footnote compared to his later achievements, with fans more likely to associate him with Bayern’s dominance.
5. Wilfried Bony (2015/16)
Ivorian striker Wilfried Bony arrived at City in 2015 for £25 million, becoming the most expensive African player at the time. After a prolific spell at Swansea, expectations were high, but Bony struggled to replicate his form, scoring 11 goals in 46 appearances. His 18-month stint ended with a transfer to Stoke City, and under Pep Guardiola’s subsequent revolution, Bony’s time at the Etihad is rarely recalled by fans.
6. David Pizarro (2012)
Chilean midfielder David Pizarro, renowned for his time at Roma and Inter Milan, had a brief loan spell at Manchester City in 2012 under Roberto Mancini. His technical passing and composure added depth to the squad during their 2011/12 Premier League title-winning campaign, but with just seven appearances, his contribution is largely forgotten. Pizarro’s short stint left a mark on those who saw his delicate play, but he’s rarely mentioned among City’s midfield greats.
