Manchester City was famously relegated to the third tier of English football in 1998. This significant event marked the only time in the club's history that they dropped to this level.
A Period of Decline Leading to Relegation
Following their defeat in the 1981 FA Cup final, Manchester City experienced a challenging period of decline. This gradual descent culminated in the club's unprecedented relegation to the third tier in 1998. It was a low point in their long and storied history, placing them outside the top two divisions of English football for the first time.
The Road Back to the Top Flight
Despite the setback, Manchester City quickly began their journey back up the football league system. They demonstrated resilience and determination, securing promotion to the top tier during the 2001–02 season. Since the 2002–03 season, Manchester City has maintained its presence as a consistent fixture in the Premier League, establishing itself as one of the league's dominant forces.
To provide a clear timeline of these key events related to their relegation and subsequent return, refer to the table below:
| Event | Year/Season | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Relegation to Third Tier | 1998 | The only time Manchester City dropped to the third tier of English football, following a period of decline. |
| Promotion to Top Tier | 2001–02 | Manchester City regained promotion, returning to the highest level of English football. |
| Established Premier League Fixture | 2002–03 onwards | Since this season, Manchester City has remained a consistent presence in the Premier League, solidifying their position among the elite clubs. |
