Kinkladze Reflects on His Manchester City Career and Fan Loyalty

Asked about his thoughts upon seeing the 1995-96 Manchester City home shirt, Kinkladze described it as “The best shirt. How do I say? Once a Blue, always a Blue!” He highlighted the enduring special connection with the fans, which he noted persists to this day. Kinkladze also shared that watching the Premier League is common in Georgia, where playing in it is “Every footballer’s dream,” and he considered himself “really lucky to have that opportunity.” When questioned by Nick about any regrets regarding his decision not to depart Manchester City following their relegation from the Premier League at the conclusion of his inaugural season in 1995-96, Kinkladze responded with a definitive “No.” He further elaborated, stating, “If you ask me now if I could turn back time and change anything, I wouldn’t change a thing.” While acknowledging the significance of striving to “win trophies,” he emphasized that for him, it was “more important that even when we fell down the divisions, people still turned up and clapped.” He also noted the personal significance of still being recognized in Manchester “30 years later,” identifying this as “the most important thing for me.” Addressing a query about his feelings when Joe Royle determined he was no longer wanted at City in 1998, Kinkladze stated, “Every manager has their opinion – I respect that.” He added that “If the manager decides not to play me, then that’s his choice.”