Manchester City begin their bid to retain the English Premier League title on Sunday at Newcastle United. Ahead of the game, here is a look at how the champions have opened up in the past five seasons.
2013/14
Manchester United were beginning life without Sir Alex Ferguson under David Moyes, but the initial impressions, which would prove to be misleading, did not appear too bad as they hammered Swansea City 4-1 at the Liberty Stadium. Robin van Persie and Daniel Welbeck both scored twice in the one-sided encounter.
2012/13
Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City had to come from behind in dramatic fashion to win the 2011/12 title, and they had to do the same against Southampton on the opening day to ensure a winning start. Vincent Kompany and City trailed 2-1 until goals in the last 18 minutes from Edin Dzeko and Samir Nasri gave them a 3-2 win.
2011/12
United had to be patient against West Brom before prevailing. Wayne Rooney had given them the lead, only for Shane Long to equalise at the Hawthorns. A draw appeared likely until Steven Reid put through his own net with nine minutes to go to give United a 2-1 triumph, much to the delight of Ashley Young.
2010/11
Chelsea made a strong opening statement to their ambitions of winning a second championship on the trot as they demolished West Brom 6-0 at Stamford Bridge. Carlos Ancelotti's men proved irresistible, with Didier Drogba scoring a hat-trick, while Florent Malouda struck two and Frank Lampard was also on the scoresheet.
2009/10
United had won the previous three championships, and their bid to make it four got off to a successful, if unspectacular, start. A goal in the 34th minute from Rooney gave them the lead against newly promoted Birmingham City. They were unable to add to their goal tally but held on to prevail 1-0.
For a quick look back, watch this video compliation of the top Manchester City goals during their championship title run from last season:
