Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has suggested an outlandish theory regarding Man City and their Premier League title victory in 2012.
Recently, the Citizens have celebrated the tenth anniversary of their first league title win in 44 years. Sergio Aguero, who scored the legendary title-winning goal, had a statue unveiled outside the Etihad Stadium in recognition of the occasion.
Read: Sergio Aguero reveals Pep Guardiola dispute that shaped his Man City career
Widely heralded as one of the best races for the Premier League of all time, the dramatic final day will go down in history.
City snatch it at the death
On the final day of the 2011/12 season, Man City just had to match bitter rivals Man United’s result to claim the league on goal difference.
The Red Devils did what they could, winning 1-0 away at Sunderland. Unfortunately, United needed a slip from City to have a chance at the title. Heading into injury time, it seemed like someone had answered United’s prayers.
Man City trailed QPR 2-1 toward the end of normal time before staging an unbelievable turnaround. Forward Eden Dzeko headed in from a corner to even the game – but City still needed a win.
The hosts threw relentless pressure at QPR, who finally broke thanks to a moment of magic. Mario Balotelli – who would register his only Premier League assist with this pass – fed the ball to Sergio Aguero.
The Argentine rode a challenge in the box before slamming the ball home at the near post. In an incredible recovery, the Etihad had gone from desperation to jubilation in a matter of minutes.
With a 3-2 victory, the blue side of Manchester claimed the Premier League title – breaking Manchester United hearts at the death. It is unquestionably one of the greatest football moments of all time. However, some do not remember it so fondly.
Recently, Wayne Rooney has questioned the validity of the Man City victory, suggesting some dodgy goings-on occurred.
Wayne Rooney airs theory on Man City title win
Speaking to The Sun, the Derby manager questioned the actions of City’s opponents, QPR.
“Paddy Kenny should have done better for a couple of the goals,” said Rooney, quotes from Manchester Evening News. “City get the second goal, and QPR kick it straight back to them. That’s never been questioned – I find that strange.”
Furthermore, the reaction of QPR’s Djibril Cisse after the 3-2 loss confused the former Man United forward too.
“Djibril Cisse celebrated after the game with the City players too. But yes, listen, it’s a historic moment in the Premier League, so I’m sure that, if you are not involved as a Manchester United player, that’s probably one of the greatest moments in the league.”
Despite the sour grapes, Rooney and his Man United side didn’t actually have to wait long to get revenge. They won the 2012/13 Premier League title – United’s twentieth and Sir Alex Ferguson’s last domestic triumph.
Featured image credit: Getty
