After six seasons with Manchester City, veteran goalkeeper Scott Carson is departing the club as his contract expires this summer. The 39-year-old Englishman leaves the Etihad Stadium having secured an impressive collection of silverware, despite limited appearances on the pitch. Since joining City in 2019, initially on loan, Carson has been a part of a squad that has lifted 12 major trophies.
Carson's journey with Manchester City began in August 2019, when he arrived on loan to provide cover for first-choice goalkeepers Ederson and Claudio Bravo. His consistent presence and positive influence within the goalkeeping unit led to the extension of his loan and eventually, a permanent move in 2021. Although opportunities to play were infrequent, Carson made his Premier League debut for City in May 2021, in a 4-3 victory against Newcastle United, marking his first appearance in the league in almost a decade. He also featured in a Champions League match against Sporting CP in the 2021/22 season.
Throughout his time at City, Carson has been highly regarded by coaches and teammates alike. Goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor, along with fellow goalkeepers Ederson and Stefan Ortega Moreno, have praised Carson's work ethic and the positive impact he has had on the team's atmosphere. His experience and leadership qualities have been invaluable to the squad, even from the sidelines.
Carson's career spans over two decades, beginning with his debut for Leeds United in 2004. He then moved to Liverpool in 2005, where he was part of the Champions League-winning squad that famously triumphed in Istanbul. Although he was an unused substitute in the final, this victory gave him a unique record: he shares the distinction with Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Costacurta of having the longest gap between first and last European Cup titles (18 years). He also had loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton Athletic and Aston Villa, before finding a home at West Bromwich Albion in 2008. After spells in Turkey with Bursaspor and then Wigan Athletic, he settled at Derby County before making the move to Manchester City.
Despite his limited game time for Manchester City, Carson has accumulated an impressive 12 trophies during his six seasons at the club. These include multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, League Cups, and the coveted Champions League title in 2023, completing a historic treble for the club. He was also part of the squad that won the UEFA Super Cup.
As Carson departs Manchester City, he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and a positive influence on the team. The club has expressed their gratitude for his contributions and wished him the best for the future. His departure creates a void in the goalkeeping department.