Frank Lampard's short-term move to Manchester City in 2014 was a source of upset for his former Chelsea teammate John Terry. The Daily Mirror Football reports that Terry found it difficult to see Lampard, and fellow Chelsea legend Ashley Cole, playing for rival clubs after their long association at Stamford Bridge.
Lampard joined Manchester City on a six-month deal in August 2014, a move that was a direct by-product of his impending transfer to New York City FC in Major League Soccer. Just a month after his arrival at the Etihad, the midfielder scored in a 1-1 draw against his former club Chelsea, an event he later reflected on as a "pretty surreal day." He did not celebrate the goal, stating he was proud to score for his new club but remained very respectful of Chelsea, suggesting there was a little bit of fate involved and that he may have had inside information on when to make runs against his old teammates.
Why did John Terry find the move difficult?
John Terry, who now maintains a part-time coaching role with Chelsea's academy, was candid about his feelings. "It just doesn’t seem right to see them (Lampard and Cole) in different shirts," Terry said. "Maybe over time that will ease but it doesn’t seem right." He elaborated that the trio had grown up together at Chelsea, winning and losing together, and achieving many great things, making it sad to see them depart. Lampard himself has since coached Chelsea across two separate stints, further intertwining his legacy with the club where he remains the all-time top scorer with 211 goals in 648 appearances.
How does this story connect to the current Manchester City squad?
The narrative of former stars moving between top clubs finds a modern context with the current Manchester City team, which sits first in the Premier League with a perfect record of six points from two wins. Pep Guardiola's side has scored six goals while conceding just two, giving them a strong +4 goal difference as they prepare for their next challenge. You can track their progress in the standings throughout the season.
What is the current state of the Manchester City team?
As of September 2026, Manchester City's early-season form is impressive, but the squad is managing some absences. Key players Jérémy Doku and Matheus Nunes are currently sidelined, which will test the team's depth. Fans can check the latest availability updates on the club's injuries page. Despite this, the team's recent form of two consecutive wins demonstrates their resilience and the strength of the squad Guardiola has assembled.
What's next for Manchester City?
The immediate focus shifts to a massive away fixture against rivals Manchester United on September 13, 2026. United currently sit 11th in the table, setting the stage for a high-stakes derby. This match is a key part of a packed schedule that supporters can follow via the club's official fixtures list. The derby will be a significant test of City's early-season momentum as they aim to maintain their position at the summit of English football.
Manchester City's next match is the away derby against Manchester United on September 13.
