Manchester City ensured their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League with a composed 2-0 victory over Fulham on the final day of the Premier League season, with Ilkay Gundogan providing the spark early on. The German midfielder opened the scoring in the 21st minute with an exquisite overhead kick after Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno parried Matheus Nunes’ close-range effort into his path. Gundogan showed instinctive brilliance to adjust his body in the crowded six-yard box and hook the ball in off the underside of the bar.
The goal punctuated a dominant opening spell for Manchester City, who controlled possession and tempo in the first half. Gundogan’s strike underlined his leadership and creativity, qualities that have been invaluable for Pep Guardiola’s side during an otherwise underwhelming campaign by their lofty standards.
Haaland Delivers Again as Manchester City Secure the Win
The second half saw a determined Fulham push forward in search of an equalizer, with Ederson called into action multiple times. Harry Wilson tested the Brazilian goalkeeper twice while Tom Cairney narrowly curled a shot wide. But Fulham’s resistance was broken in the 72nd minute when Gundogan was brought down in the box by Sasa Lukic. Despite Omar Marmoush being on the pitch, it was Erling Haaland who stepped up and calmly dispatched the resulting penalty.
Haaland’s goal marked his 22nd league strike of the season, reaffirming his status as one of the most consistent forwards in Europe. His assured finish secured all three points for the Manchester City and snuffed out any hope of a Fulham comeback, sealing a top-three finish and another shot at European glory next season.
De Bruyne Makes Farewell Appearance Amid Grealish Omission
In a sentimental moment for Manchester City fans, Kevin De Bruyne made a brief final appearance, coming off the bench in the 85th minute. The Belgian playmaker, widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, was given a warm reception from both sets of supporters as he entered the pitch one last time in Manchester City colors. His future reportedly lies away from the Etihad after nearly a decade of service.
Conspicuously absent from the matchday squad was Jack Grealish, sparking fresh speculation over his future at the club. Guardiola later clarified it was a selection decision, but with the summer transfer window looming, questions persist over whether Grealish may follow De Bruyne out the door.
Guardiola Hails Mental Strength and Champions League Qualification
Following the match, Pep Guardiola praised his team’s resilience during what he called a “tough year.” He emphasized the significance of securing Champions League football, comparing the achievement to winning a title in itself. “If we had given up, we wouldn’t be here,” Guardiola said. “We played good, bad, it didn’t matter — we kept fighting. Third place may not be what we’re used to, but it’s a reflection of hard work through adversity.”
The Spanish manager also acknowledged the quality of their rivals this season, noting the gap to champions Arsenal and Liverpool, but expressed optimism about improvement in the next campaign. Despite missing out on a major trophy, Manchester City’s ability to regroup and claim a Champions League berth could provide a foundation for a renewed challenge in 2025.
Fulham’s Strong Season Ends in Disappointment
Despite the defeat, Fulham can look back on a commendable campaign, finishing 11th with 54 points — a strong return for a side that has often battled relegation in previous seasons. Manager Marco Silva’s men showed flashes of quality throughout the afternoon, particularly in the second half when they applied pressure and came close to scoring on several occasions.
Raul Jimenez nearly emulated Gundogan’s acrobatics with an overhead kick of his own that narrowly missed the target late on. As the final whistle blew, Craven Cottage applauded a season of progress, though the loss to Manchester City marked a disappointing end to their record-breaking year. With potential summer departures looming, including veteran Tom Cairney, Fulham will need to regroup quickly to build on their mid-table stability.
