On This Day: De Jong Bolsters City's Transformation in 2009

Remember when City were mid-table scrappers? On this day in 2009, Nigel de Jong's arrival marked a crucial step in their meteoric rise! 🇳🇱

Sheikh Mansour's takeover had sent shockwaves through the market, with Robinho's transfer setting a new record De Jong joined the likes of Bellamy, Bridge, and Given in a January spree that included a (then) audacious world record bid for Kaka

Though that didn't pan out, De Jong proved a shrewd acquisition. The tough-tackling Dutchman added much-needed steel to a team brimming with attacking talent like Adebayor, Santa Cruz, and (soon) Tevez

He became a key cog in City's rapid transformation, playing 137 games, lifting the FA Cup and Premier League before moving on to Milan

De Jong's journey continued in the US, Turkey, and Qatar before hanging up his boots in 2021. He also racked up 81 caps for the Netherlands, leaving a lasting mark on both club and country 🇳🇱

De Jong's arrival wasn't just about money, it was about building a champion. And boy, did they champion!

Can you imagine City trying to buy Kaka for £100m in today's market? What other iconic January signings do you remember?