Manchester City’s evolution from perennial underachievers to one of the most dominant forces in European football has been nothing short of remarkable — thanks largely to the big names who changed the club’s history. Since the turn of the century, and especially following the 2008 takeover, City have built a squad filled with elite talent and serial winners. From title-clinching goals to era-defining performances, countless players have etched their names into club history through unforgettable moments and unmatched consistency.
This is a ranking of the ten greatest Manchester City players of the 21st century — judged by their impact, silverware, longevity and legacy.
10. Phil Foden
Still only 24, Phil Foden is already carving a legacy as one of Manchester City’s most technically gifted academy graduates. With six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and a Champions League to his name, he’s been central to City’s domestic dominance under Guardiola.
His versatility, eye for goal and ability to rise on the biggest occasions; notably during his 2023–24 campaign, where he won the Premier League Player of the Season, have set him apart. A signal a future club legend in real time.
9. Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland hasn’t been at the club long but few players have made such an immediate impact. In his debut season (2022–23), he scored 52 goals in all competitions, a club record, firing City to a historic treble. He claimed the Premier League Golden Boot, broke the single-season goalscoring record (36 goals) and was named UEFA Men’s Player of the Year. His numbers are absurd, his influence undeniable.
8. Yaya Touré
The Ivorian midfielder redefined what a powerhouse could be. Touré scored 24 goals in all competitions during the 2013–14 title-winning season, unheard of for a midfielder, and was instrumental in City’s FA Cup triumph in 2011, netting winners in both the semi-final and final. With three league titles and a penchant for stepping up when it mattered most, his combination of elegance and brute force made him one of the most complete midfielders the league has seen.
7. Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva may be the most tactically intelligent player Guardiola has ever had at City. His tireless work rate, dribbling ability and consistent excellence — whether deployed in midfield or out wide — have made him indispensable. With 18 major trophies and countless clutch performances, including in the Champions League run of 2022–23, Silva remains one of the most reliable big-game players in Europe.
6. Rodri
City’s midfield metronome and arguably the most important player in their current system. Rodri scored the winning goal in the 2023 Champions League final and went the entirety of the 2023–24 Premier League season unbeaten. His ability to control tempo, read danger and deliver when it counts has turned him into the beating heart of Guardiola’s side. Already a four-time Premier League winner, he also became the only Manchester City player in history to win the Ballon d’Or — a monumental achievement that confirms his status among the game’s elite.
5. Ilkay Gündogan
The German international was Pep Guardiola’s first signing at City and his most trusted. Gündogan often operated in the shadows but when moments demanded leadership, he delivered. His brace against Manchester United in the 2023 FA Cup final and crucial goals during the 2021 and 2022 title run-ins are etched into City folklore. With 14 trophies, including captaining the treble-winning side, he was the calm in chaos and the spark in tight games.
4. Vincent Kompany
More than just a captain. Kompany embodied City’s transformation from challengers to serial winners. Across 11 seasons, the Belgian centre-back lifted four Premier League titles and was the defensive rock upon which the club was built. His thunderbolt against Leicester in 2019 remains one of the defining moments in the title race. He led with presence, intelligence and unshakeable commitment.
3. David Silva
Nicknamed ‘El Mago’ for a reason. David Silva brought artistry and control to Manchester City’s midfield at a time when English football wasn’t used to players of his type. Across 436 appearances, he registered over 130 goal contributions, won four Premier League titles and played a central role in redefining the club’s identity. Few players have dictated play with such grace and consistency over a decade.
2. Kevin De Bruyne
The best passer English football has seen in the modern era. De Bruyne has been the creative engine of Guardiola’s City since 2015, racking up 174 assists and multiple double-digit goal seasons. He has three Premier League Playmaker Awards, was named Premier League Player of the Season twice and remains indispensable even amid injuries. A six-time league champion and Champions League winner, his vision has redefined the role of the attacking midfielder.
1. Sergio Agüero
The greatest player in Manchester City history. Agüero scored 260 goals in 390 appearances, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer and one of the most prolific forwards the Premier League has ever seen. His last-minute winner against QPR in 2012, sealing City’s first league title in 44 years, is arguably the most iconic moment in the league’s history. Beyond that, he delivered season after season, winning five league titles and seven domestic cups. He didn’t just score, he made it unforgettable.
