- James Milner played for Man City from 2010-2015
- He was given the option to join Chelsea before making the move
- The midfielder has shared why he chose the Citizens instead
James Milner has recently revealed why he chose Man City over Chelsea, who at the time were considered the superior team.
Manchester City are currently one of the best teams in the world, and a fine an example of a club that had a vision and acted on it. However, this rise to the top would not have been possible without the players who proudly fought for the badge over the years.
James Milner is certainly one of them. The midfield powerhouse was a loyal servant at the Etihad Stadium for half a decade, and played a part in City’s first Premier League title in 44 years.
However, Milner’s story could have been very different. Indeed, the Englishman has admitted that he had a chance to sign with Chelsea, but joined Man City to become part of their ambitious project.
Milner opens up on why he chose Man City over Chelsea
Milner could have taken the easy road by switching Aston Villa for Chelsea back in 2010, but he wanted to take Man City from a team of lowly status, to one who won titles.
While speaking on the Rest is Football, Milner said: “Yeah. I mean, for sure. I think at that point I had a chance of going to Chelsea, maybe. I think.”
On asked why he chose City he replied: “Because of what you just said. I feel like Chelsea had been successful and won trophies and Man City hadn’t for a very long time.
“I thought, you know, it’d be great to start that and be part of that and win trophies there and yeah, that was the main decision really and I went there and was fortunate enough to be part of the first one, the FA Cup was huge.”
James Milner’s contribution to Man City and the Premier League have been immense
Milner joined City 16 years ago and went on to become a fan favourite at the Etihad. The midfielder made 203 appearances for the Citizens in all competitions, scoring 19 goals and providing 38 assists.
Even now, Milner is still actively playing with Brighton. Also, he recently broke the record for most Premier League appearances, surpassing Gareth Barry.
The experienced veteran has already proven why he should go down in the history books. More than 20 years in the league and he is still going strong.
