Ultimate Barclaysmen: Elano, Manchester City’s Superstar Before the Superstars Arrived
Before Manchester City became synonymous with global superstars and Premier League dominance, the club had its own fan-favorite, Elano. The Brazilian international provided some magical moments during his two-year stint in England, becoming a beloved figure at Eastlands.
The era fondly referred to as ‘The Barclays,’ particularly the first decade of the 2000s, represents a nostalgic period for fans of English football. While the Premier League officially carried Barclays’ sponsorship from 2001 to 2016, the term has come to signify a golden era of football for a generation of supporters.
After its inception in 1992, the English top flight experienced a second wave of popularity in the 2000s, fueled by lucrative international TV deals and an influx of foreign talent. The likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, and Didier Drogba dazzled fans weekly. Yet, when fans nostalgically reference ‘The Barclays,’ they often refer to players like Elano—stars who may not have grabbed headlines as frequently but were integral to their teams and capable of extraordinary moments of brilliance.
Elano embodied this ethos. Arriving at Manchester City in 2007, he quickly endeared himself to the supporters with his flair, creativity, and ability to deliver in key moments. His stunning free kicks and overall play helped shape City before the era of big-money signings took hold.
