Manchester City, managed by Frank Clark, competed in the First Division after being relegated from the Premier League the previous season. The squad combined experienced players like Niall Quinn and Paul Walsh with emerging talent, aiming for an immediate return to the top flight. City showed flashes of attacking promise but struggled with defensive consistency and inconsistency in results. They finished 14th, well off the promotion places, reflecting a difficult season of transition. Cup competitions offered little relief, with early exits in both the FA Cup and League Cup, emphasising the need for squad rebuilding and greater stability.