Manchester City named Club of the Year at Ballon d’Or ceremony

Manchester City have been named Club of the Year at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.

On a stellar night for the Abu Dhabi-owned Premier League champions, two of their star names were also added to the glittering roll of honour.

Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne became the first player in City’s history to be shortlisted in the final three of the men’s individual award.

Meanwhile, serial Golden Glove winner Ederson also reached the podium for the Yashin Trophy which is confined to goalkeepers.

City chief executive Ferran Soriano, who was in Paris with Director of Football Txiki Begiristain to collect the team prize, declared it a proud day for his club.

“To be named Club of the Year is an honour and further underlines the strength of this club across both men’s and women’s football,” he said.

“We pride ourselves on playing beautiful football and winning matches. We are proud of the quality of the players and all the staff behind the scenes who help make us successful.

“This award is recognition of the hard work and dedication found in every department of our organisation. We will continue to strive for success but today I want everyone connected to Manchester City Football Club to take a step back and feel proud of all we achieved last season.”

De Bruyne, meanwhile, believes his place in the men’s top three is recognition for his performances over a number of years for both City and Belgium.

“I have been nominated quite a few times now, so it means you have been doing well consistently,” he said.

Kevin De Bruyne scores for Manchester City against Bournemouth in the Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium in August 2022. Getty

“To be recognised as a player is always nice. If you are in that list, then it means a lot