Manchester City’s supporters have long embraced a unique identity. But why are Manchester City fans called the Citizens? It’s not just a nickname — it’s a badge of belonging, pride, and rivalry. In this article, QuraGoal will take you on a compelling journey through the history, meaning, and culture behind “The Citizens,” exploring how this name reflects Manchester City’s roots, fanbase, and identity.
Origins of the Name “The Citizens”
To understand why fans are called the “Citizens,” we must look at the club’s name and its evolution. When the club adopted the name “Manchester City,” it opened the door to a natural linguistic connection: those who support “City” become the “Citizens” (or “Cityzens” in stylized form). In essence, the nickname is a direct play on the word City. Many sources affirm that the term “Citizens” is a twist on Manchester City, giving supporters a collective identity tied directly to the club’s name.
But there’s more than wordplay. The nickname also implies a sense of belonging to Manchester itself — a bond between the team and the local community. Some fans and commentators have framed the label as a subtle jab toward rivals: while Manchester United attracts a large global following, “Citizens” suggests that City’s supporters are authentic Mancunians — genuine city citizens. This contrast fuels part of the rivalry narrative. (FoottheBall)
The club itself leans into this identity: its free membership scheme is branded “Cityzens,” reinforcing the idea that fans are not just spectators but members of the City community.
Historical Context and Fan Identity
Club Origins and Local Identity
Manchester City traces its roots back to a church team, St. Mark’s (West Gorton), established in 1880. Over time the team underwent reorganizations, briefly becoming Ardwick AFC before finally rebranding as Manchester City in 1894. (Wikipedia supporters page), the club’s identity has been intertwined with the local region — the East Manchester area, working-class roots, and a community orientation. Adopting the name “Citizens” fits this narrative: it emphasizes the connection between the club and the people of Manchester, as opposed to distant, detached fandom.
Rivalry Underpinnings
In the intense rivalry with Manchester United, “Citizens” carries another layer. Many City supporters use the term to subtly underscore their club’s authenticity — that their fans are the real Manchester inhabitants, while United’s broader fanbase is sometimes portrayed as less local or more global. In some fan circles, City fans mock United supporters as “tourists” or “glory hunters,” while embracing “Citizen” as an emblem of local pride.
Of course, this is playful rivalry banter — but it has helped cement Citizens in the lexicon of football nicknames, giving it emotional resonance each time it’s used in chants, matchday coverage, or media references.
“Citizens” vs. “Cityzens” — Spelling, Style, and Official Use
You might see both “Citizens” and “Cityzens” used to refer to Man City supporters. Which is correct? The answer is: both, in different contexts.
- Citizens: This is the traditional, literal spelling — fans calling themselves “The Citizens” or referring to each other as citizens. It reflects more straightforward English usage.
- Cityzens: The club has intentionally adopted this stylized spelling for its membership and branding programs (e.g., Cityzens membership). This creates a visual link between City + citizen and gives the term an official twist.
In everyday usage among supporters, “Citizens” is more common. In club communications, “Cityzens” appears more often. Neither spelling significantly changes the meaning — both celebrate the notion of belonging to Manchester and to the club.
How the Nickname Lives in Fan Culture
Chants, Songs, and Identity
When Manchester City fans chant or refer to themselves, “Citizens” often appears as a key element. It’s embedded in fanfare, promotional materials, and matchday culture. The term is not just passive — it becomes active: “Stand up, all you Citizens,” for example, or “We are Citizens” in songs and social media.
Symbols, Merchandise, and Branding
Because “Citizens” resonates so closely with identity, you’ll see it on scarves, T-shirts, merchandise, and fan paraphernalia. The club’s branding efforts use “Cityzens” in membership hubs and fan apps, doubling down on the idea that supporters are part of the community.
Rivalry Chants and Taunts
In derbies and rivalry matches, the nickname can take on a shar. City fans may contrast their “citizen” status with what they perceive as rival fans’ lack of authenticity. In reverse, rival fans sometimes deride City’s use of “Citizens” as pretentious. These ironic exchanges keep the nickname alive in both banter and identity battles.
What the Nickname Means Today — Beyond Wordplay
Identity and Localism in a Global Era
Manchester City’s recent success has pushed it into the global spotlight. The club has supporters across continents. In such times, the term Citizens becomes even more meaningful — a reminder that at its heart lies local identity, the Manchester connection, and the idea of true belonging amid global expansion.
Emotional Resonance for Fans
For many supporters, being a “Citizen” is more than just being a fan — it’s a sense of honor, a recognition of loyalty, and a statement: “I belong.” It distinguishes those who bleed sky blue.
Top Examples and Anecdotes
- The club’s Cityzens membership program invites fans to become “part of the community” — using the term as part of an inclusive identity.
- Some supporters argue the nickname is a dig at United, suggesting City fans are more genuine Mancunians.
- Despite widespread use, “The Citizens” has never been formally declared as the official nickname in the way some teams adopt names — it has grown organically through fan and media usage.
Conclusion
Why are Manchester City fans called the Citizens? It’s a powerful blend of etymology, local identity, rivalry dynamics, and fan culture. The nickname Citizens (and its stylized sibling Cityzens) ties supporters directly to the club’s name, yet goes deeper: it speaks of belonging, pride, and being part of Manchester itself.
For fans seeking to deepen their connection or newcomers trying to understand City’s fabric, embracing the idea of “Citizens” helps make sense of the emotional bond that defines this fanbase.
In this article, QuraGoal has unraveled the story behind why are Manchester City fans called the Citizens — now it’s your turn. Use that name with pride, wear it boldly, and join the conversation: are you a Citizen too?
