The ‘Curse’ that is living in Manchester for Foreign Footballers

The city of Manchester has seen quite a lot of legendary football players arrive the city and wow its residence while playing for the respective teams the English city hosts in the premier league. But on closer look, the city itself has faced a lot of challenges attracting and retaining foreign football talent due to certain off-the-pitch factors that have left some players and their partners less than enthused about living in the city.

This growing sentiment has caused transfer headaches for both Manchester United and Manchester City, as they strive to build competitive squads for the upcoming season.

One notable incident that highlighted this issue occurred in the summer of 2017 when Dani Alves, who had previously played alongside Pep Guardiola at Barcelona, was all set to join Manchester City.

However, the Brazilian right-back unexpectedly pulled out of the move and opted to sign for Paris Saint-Germain instead. It was later revealed that Alves’ then-wife, Joana Sanz, harbored a strong dislike for living in Manchester, choosing the allure of Paris over the home of legendary bands Oasis and The Smiths.

Although Manchester has undergone significant transformation in recent years, it still falls behind other glamorous European cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Milan, and Paris in terms of its appeal as a residence for footballers.

This sentiment has been echoed by Angel Di Maria, Carlos Tevez, Nolito, and even Ilkay Gundogan, who recently departed Man City for Barcelona.

Bernardo Silva’s imminent departure from City this summer is also attributed in part to a desire for a change of scenery and a move to a sunnier climate.

According to an anonymous source who assists footballers in settling into new clubs, the global reputation and success of Manchester United and Manchester City often outweigh concerns about the city itself.

The source is quoted as saying,

“There’s no player I can think of who wouldn’t want to go to City or United, they are such big clubs that they are above these concerns, the club weighs more than the city.”

It is argued that the allure of playing for these prestigious clubs and the appeal of the English Premier League often outweigh any reservations about living in Manchester, especially for young players.

However, for established stars like Alves, Di Maria, and Gundogan, off-the-pitch factors hold greater significance.

After spending seven successful years with Manchester City, Gundogan sought a new challenge, with his decision to join Barcelona being influenced by Manchester’s grey skies and the lack of quality restaurants, which his wife Sara Arfaoui had previously criticized.

Comparatively, Barcelona offers perfect weather, culinary delights, and beautiful beaches, making it a more enticing destination for many individuals around the world.

A common complaint among players’ partners is the perceived lack of good food options in Manchester. Di Maria’s wife described the local cuisine as “disgusting,” and David de Gea’s girlfriend Edurne Garcia, who chose not to live full time in Manchester, attested that even the best eateries in the city were subpar compared to those in Spain.

Despite these criticisms, Manchester’s culinary scene has been gaining recognition in recent years, with accolades such as being named the number one city to visit in the UK by Lonely Planet in 2023 and being ranked as the third-best city in the world by Time Out.

Manchester’s weather is also a common target for criticism, often associated with grey skies and heavy rainfall. Former City winger Nolito infamously claimed that the lack of sunshine had affected his daughter’s complexion.

However, statistics show that Manchester ranks 16th in terms of rainfall among European cities, with Milan, Munich, and Lyon experiencing more precipitation. Nevertheless, the perception of Manchester’s weather persists, particularly during the shorter winter days.

While some foreign players have struggled to embrace life in Manchester, there have been exceptions. Juan Mata, who joined Manchester United in 2014, developed a deep affection for the city and its culture.

Mata has openly expressed his love for Manchester, praising its vibrant atmosphere, passionate football fans, and the warmth of its people. He has actively engaged in community initiatives and charity work, further endearing himself to the local population.

Mata’s positive experience serves as a testament to the potential for foreign players to embrace life in Manchester. His case highlights the importance of individual preferences and experiences in shaping one’s perception of a city.

While some players may struggle to adapt, others find themselves drawn to the city’s unique charm and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Moreover, Manchester’s ongoing development and revitalization have contributed to its appeal. The city has seen significant investment in infrastructure, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues in recent years.

The vibrant music scene, world-class museums, and thriving arts community offer a diverse range of experiences for players and their families to enjoy.

In addition, Manchester’s status as a hub for sports and leisure activities cannot be overlooked. The city boasts a rich sporting heritage, with iconic stadiums, training facilities, and a strong sense of sporting camaraderie. For players who are passionate about their craft, the opportunity to be part of Manchester’s football culture can be a major draw.

It is worth noting that while some players may initially have reservations about living in Manchester, their perceptions can evolve over time. As they immerse themselves in the local culture, build relationships with teammates and fans, and explore the city’s offerings, their outlook may shift.

The initial challenges they face may be outweighed by the sense of belonging and the fulfillment that comes with being part of a successful football club in a passionate football city.