Top News

Sergio Aguero’s dramatic stoppage-time winner against QPR in 2012 still stands as one of the most unforgettable moments in Premier League history. Even years after stepping away from football, the former Argentina striker continues to cherish the goal that delivered Manchester City their first modern league title, while also explaining the careful planning behind the move and the lasting bond he still shares with the club’s supporters.

Aguero revisits the drama of the final day

Sergio Aguero has revealed that the fear of letting the league title slip away did enter his mind before he scored his famous goal in 2012. Speaking to FourFourTwo, Aguero remembered how Manchester City went into their final match knowing that a win over QPR would be enough to seal the trophy.

But the game took an unexpected turn as City fell behind. "After we beat Manchester United, we went into the last game of the season knowing that if we won at home to QPR, we would win the league. During the second half though, we went 2-1 down. You’re not thinking about anything at that moment. You’re thinking that we’re going to lose the league. But hey, we kept trying until the end."

A move worked out in advance with Mario Balotelli

When Edin Dzeko scored in the 92nd minute to make it 2-2, Aguero felt there was still time for one more goal. He explained that the move he then produced with Mario Balotelli was not instinctive in the moment, but something he had already thought through beforehand.

"I made the decision to drop back to receive the pass from Nigel de Jong, then I tried to play a one-two with Mario Balotelli. That had been in my head already – I’d been planning that, to see if I could get a goal. Beforehand, I’d told Mario that I was going to look for him, that I was going to give it to him so that he could give me a one-two and an assist. Luckily, the plan I had with him worked out – it ended up being the perfect play."

The QPR goal still means more with time

More than a decade on, Aguero says the emotional significance of that strike has only grown stronger. Having retired five years ago, he now understands even more clearly just how important that moment was in the history of Manchester City and for the fans.

"It’s really nice that the fans still follow me, that they still love me in the same way that they did when I was playing. I think they were happy with my performance over those 10 years, with all of the title wins, and of course the QPR goal, which was important to the club’s history. Now that I’m not playing any more, as the years go by, every year on May 13, the day of that goal against QPR, I relive the moment. Lovely memories – for me, it will always be that way."

What next for Aguero and Manchester City?

While Aguero is continuing to enjoy retirement, Manchester City are aiming to win back the league title under new management. Enzo Maresca started the current season in charge, taking over from Pep Guardiola, who left after 10 years of unprecedented success.