The 2023-24 Premier League season ended with Manchester City winning a fourth successive title after overcoming Arsenal and Liverpool on the final day. Pep Guardiola’s side were initial favorites with the Premier League winner odds, but many thought they would burn out after a slow start to the campaign. However, a 23-match unbeaten run after Christmas gave them enough momentum to lift the trophy once again.
Guardiola’s arrival in England was a defining moment for the Premier League. The Spaniard had dominated at Barcelona and Bayern Munich and following an initial struggle in his debut season, he has built City into one of the best sides in the league’s history.
Over the years, Guardiola’s City has enjoyed some memorable moments. From Vincent Kompany’s screamer against Leicester City to Gabriel Jesus’s goal to earn the Centurions their 100 points. But what are other big moments in the history of England’s top flight?
In this article we look at the defining moments in the history of the Premier League since it started 22 years ago.
Manchester United’s Maiden Triumph (1992-1993)
In the inaugural Premier League season (1992-1993), Manchester United, under the astute management of Sir Alex Ferguson, clinched their first top-flight title in 26 years. The Red Devils’ blend of youth and experience—featuring the likes of Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, and Mark Hughes—ushered in a new era of dominance. Their attacking flair and unwavering determination set the benchmark for future champions.
Arsenal’s Invincibles (2003-2004)
Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal achieved football immortality by going unbeaten throughout the 2003-2004 campaign. The Invincibles, led by Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira, combined flair with resilience. 
Their fluid passing, defensive solidity, and sheer consistency remain unparalleled. The 49-game unbeaten streak stands as a testament to their greatness before a certain teenager called Wayne Rooney hit a wonder strike to end the run as one of his 208 Premier League goals.
Paul Pogba’s Record-Breaking Return (2016)
In 2016, Paul Pogba’s return to Manchester United shattered transfer records. The French midfielder’s move from Juventus for £89 million made headlines worldwide. Pogba’s move from Turin to Manchester was a real statement of intent – not just from Jose Mourinho, who returned to England after being sacked by Chelsea – but by the entire Premier League in that it can attract the best talent in the world.
With superstars like Gareth Bale and Luis Suarez, who both won the Player of the Year awards before leaving, moved to Real Madrid and Barcelona in successive seasons, Pogba’s arrival made the Premier League feel superior and like a final destination after both sides were interested in the Frenchman’s signature.
Leicester City’s Unlikely Triumph (2015-2016)
Leicester City’s fairy-tale title win defied all odds. A team that narrowly escaped relegation the previous season, guided by Claudio Ranieri, played fearless football. Jamie Vardy’s goals, Riyad Mahrez’s wizardry, and Wes Morgan’s leadership propelled the Foxes to glory. Their triumph remains one of the sport’s most remarkable underdog stories, having been 500/1 outsiders before the season had started.
Manchester City’s Aguero Moment (2011-2012)
The 2011-2012 season witnessed a dramatic title race between Manchester City and Manchester United. Sergio Aguero’s iconic last-minute goal against QPR secured City’s first Premier League title in 44 years. The Etihad Stadium erupted, and “Aguero!” echoed through football history.
These moments define the essence of the Premier League—a blend of passion, drama, and historic feats. As fans, we cherish these memories, knowing that each season brings new narratives and unforgettable chapters to this storied league.
By Gregory O'NeillGreg is a modern-day explorer with an insatiable love for travel. His passion for adventure has led him to far-flung corners of the world, where he immerses himself in diverse cultures and experiences. Greg's zest for life is epitomized by a continuous pursuit of new horizons and captivating journeys.
