Georgi Kinkladze Reflects on Joining Manchester City and His Manchester Experience

Georgi Kinkladze explained his decision to join Manchester City in 1995, citing the allure of the Premier League, which he described as “one of the best leagues in the world.” He stated, “Everybody wants to play in the Premier League.” Kinkladze recalled performing well and scoring in both the home and away Euro 96 qualifiers against Wales. He emphasized the swiftness of his decision, noting, “When City offered me a contract, I didn’t even think about it. I didn’t even look what was in the contract. I just signed and I came to play here.” Regarding his adjustment to life in Manchester, Kinkladze described the initial period as challenging. He arrived at 21 from a different country and “didn’t speak any English,” which made the beginning “difficult.” However, he quickly felt welcomed, stating, “everybody made me feel welcome. I have never felt like a stranger or a foreigner here.” He added that “It was easy after two months, I felt like I was in Georgia.” Kinkladze reflected on the reception he has received, noting that while “Everybody asks me this question: ‘What day do you remember most?'”, for him, “every day here was special.” He stated that he has consistently felt “very welcome in Manchester” since his first day, almost 30 years ago, and considers the city his “second home.” He expressed enjoyment in returning to “see old friends” and appreciates being recognized by City fans.