Redaction Simon Brett with David Tully
Published on 2024-04-12 11:49:11
Founded in 1880 at St Mark’s Church, Manchester City was created as a way to bring the community together and provide a positive outlet for the people of West Gorton. The club was originally known as St Mark’s (West Gorton) before changing its name to Ardwick Association Football Club in 1887, and then finally becoming Manchester City in 1894 due to financial reasons. The club’s founders, William Beastow and Thomas Goodbehere, believed that a football team would help create unity and a sense of community among the residents.
Despite its rich history dating back 144 years, Manchester City was actually founded two years after its rivals Manchester United. The club has gone through several name changes throughout its existence, starting from St Mark’s to Ardwick AFC before finally settling on Manchester City in 1894. While Manchester United was founded as Newton Heath LYR FC, Crystal Palace, founded in 1861, only turned professional in 1905, making Manchester City one of the oldest professional clubs in English football.
In terms of age, Manchester City is not the oldest club in English football, with Sheffield FC, established in 1857, holding that title. Nottingham Forest, founded in 1865, is the second oldest team currently playing in the English top flight. Despite not being the oldest club, Manchester City has a rich and eventful history, becoming one of the most successful clubs in the world in recent years.
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