The Best Manchester City Left-Backs of All-Time
- Think Football Ideas
- Apr 2, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 18, 2025
Man City Left Flank Greats: A Historical Journey Through Blue Brilliance
Manchester City has a proud history, and over the years, the left-back role has seen some standout players who have helped shape the club’s success in England, contributing to their status as one of the most successful clubs on English soil.
Whether they were gritty defensive stalwarts or marauding attacking forces, each player contributed uniquely to the Cityzens' success. We’ve looked back through City’s history to highlight the best players to have worn the sky-blue jersey in that role.
Ranking the 10 Greatest Left-Backs in Man City's History
10. Stuart Pearce
Stuart Pearce, affectionately known as "Psycho," is celebrated as one of Manchester City's iconic left-backs. He joined the club in 2001, and his powerful left foot, combined with his relentless spirit, captured the admiration of the fans.
Pearce immediately made an impact, scoring a free-kick on his debut. Pearce's leadership qualities were evident as he captained City to the First Division championship under Kevin Keegan in 2002, showcasing his leadership on and off the pitch.
Pearce's enduring legacy as a City icon is unquestionable, cementing his place among the greatest left-backs in the club's history.
9. Benjamin Mendy
Benjamin Mendy's arrival at Manchester City was met with great anticipation, and he quickly established himself as a key figure in Pep Guardiola's system.
Blessed with pace and an attacking mindset, Mendy provided width and creativity from the left-back position. Although injuries and off-field issues hampered his progress, his impact on the team's style of play was undeniable.
In his 50 appearances, Mendy contributed two goals, nine assists, and helped secure 16 clean sheets with 54 tackles at a success rate of 74%.
His presence was pivotal in securing 36 victories, underscoring his importance to City at the time. He won three Premier League titles, 2 Carabao Cup [League Cup] and an FA Charity Shield at City.
8. Willie Donachie
Willie Donachie's contributions to Manchester City spanned over a decade, during which he established himself as a dependable left-back.
Donachie's no-nonsense defending and tireless work ethic earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike. His longevity at the club is a testament to his skill and dedication.
7. Terry Phelan
During the early 1990s, Terry Phelan's time at Manchester City highlighted his determination and adaptability. As a bold defender known for his overlapping runs, Phelan added energy to the left side of the field.
An unforgettable highlight in Phelan's career unfolded at Maine Road for City during an FA Cup encounter against Tottenham Hotspur.
In the match, the left-back demonstrated his exceptional ability by making an impressive run from one end of the field to the other, expertly avoiding several challenges before calmly scoring a goal. He is fondly remembered for his contributions during his tenure at the club.
6. João Cancelo
While primarily known as a right-back, João Cancelo's versatility and adaptability saw him excel on the left side of defence for City. Cancelo has showcased his defensive solidity and attacking flair, often seamlessly interchanging positions with his teammates.
His performances have firmly established him as one of City's standout full-backs in recent years. However, his time at the club has been abruptly interrupted as he is currently on loan at Barcelona.
5. Aleksandar Kolarov
A marauding presence down the left flank, Aleksandar Kolarov endeared himself to Manchester City fans with his thunderous strikes and pinpoint crosses.
He was renowned for his strong left foot and knack for scoring important long-range goals, making Kolarov a favourite among fans at the time. His contributions were pivotal to City's achievements.
In his 165 appearances for City, Kolarov demonstrated his defensive prowess with 46 clean sheets and 260 tackles, boasting a tackle success rate of 75%. Additionally, he registered 11 goals, significantly contributing to City's victories.
His trophy cabinet includes two Premier League titles, an FA Cup triumph in 2011, Football League Cup victories in 2014 and 2016, and an FA Community Shield win in 2012.
These accolades, earned during the onset of Man City's domestic dominance, solidify Kolarov's legacy as one of the club's best left-backs of all-time.
4. Gael Clichy
Gael Clichy's tenure with the Cityzens was marked by his steadfast consistency and professionalism. A reliable defender with lightning pace, Clichy provided defensive stability while also contributing to City's attacking endeavours under Man.
During his trophy-laden spell at the club, he played a pivotal role in City's domestic dominance under the guidance of managers Roberto Mancini, Manuel Pellegrini, and, for a season with Pep Guardiola.
His contributions were instrumental in securing significant triumphs, including two Premier League titles in 2011-12 and 2013-14, two Football League Cups in 2013-14 and 2015-16, and an FA Community Shield victory in 2012.
3. Tony Book
Tony Book was a cornerstone of Manchester City's defence during the late 1960s and early 1970s. While primarily known as a right-back, Book's versatility often saw him filling in on the left side of defence when needed.
His leadership qualities made him a revered figure among fans and teammates alike. As a key member of the squad under the management of Joe Mercer and Malcolm Allison, Book contributed significantly to Man City's triumphs, including winning the First Division title in 1968 and the FA Cup in 1969.
His ability to marshal the defence and provide stability at the back was crucial in establishing City as one of the dominant forces in English football during that era.
2. Andy Hinchcliffe
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Andy Hinchcliffe emerged as one of Manchester City's most reliable left-backs, having been a key member of the academy side that won the Youth FA Cup in 1986.
Celebrated for his outstanding defensive skills and accurate crossing, Hinchcliffe swiftly became an essential part of the team. His consistency in both defensive solidity and providing support in attack garnered admiration from fans and pundits alike.
1. Glyn Pardoe
Glyn Pardoe's name is etched in Manchester City folklore, having spent his entire professional career at the club.
A product of City's youth academy, Pardoe demonstrated his skill and dedication while playing as a left-back for the team. His loyalty and commitment to the club inspire aspiring young players.
Pardoe's outstanding contributions to City's history include triumphs such as clinching the Football League First Division title in 1967-68, winning the FA Charity Shield in 1968, lifting the FA Cup in 1969, securing the Football League Cup in 1970, and triumphing in the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1970, cementing his status as City's best left back of all time.
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