The journey of Richard Edghill, former Manchester City star and club ambassador, is a testament to his unwavering love and loyalty for the club. Despite leaving City over two decades ago, Edghill’s connection with the team remains strong. Now working as a learning mentor at a primary school, he was ecstatic to witness Pep Guardiola’s team clinch yet another league title.
Manchester City’s achievement of winning four successive top-flight titles this season has cemented their place in history as the first English side to do so. Edghill, who played as a right-back for City from 1993 to 2002, has witnessed the remarkable growth of the club since his departure.
The title of Edghill’s autobiography, ‘Once a Blue, Always a Blue,’ perfectly encapsulates his lifelong dedication to Manchester City. His journey began as a young boy playing football in a field near his parents’ house in Oldham. Despite having the opportunity to sign for Oldham Athletic, he was put off by their artificial pitch at the time.
Instead, Edghill caught the eye of Paul Walker while playing for Slumberland Rangers and eventually joined City’s School of Excellence. He vividly recalls signing on for the Youth Training Scheme (YTS) at a mere £29.50 per week. Under the guidance of club legend Tony Book, Edghill steadily progressed through the ranks and was thrilled when he was offered a three-year contract at the age of 17, earning £350 per week.
His debut for Manchester City came against Wimbledon at Selhurst Park. Edghill vividly remembers standing in the tunnel alongside towering opponents like Vinnie Jones, Eric Young, and John Fashanu. Despite his initial nerves, Fashanu unexpectedly praised his performance during the match, providing a much-needed confidence boost.
Edghill’s promising career took a turn when he suffered a debilitating knee injury that kept him sidelined for 21 months. He underwent nine operations to reconstruct his knee and was told there was only a 50-50 chance of returning to football. Thanks to the care of David Dandy, Edghill defied the odds and played for another 12 years, with his knee still holding up well after 30 years.
Upon his return to Manchester City, Edghill found that much had changed at the club. He was offered a one-year contract by Kevin Keegan but desired a longer deal, leading him to join QPR at the invitation of Ian Holloway. Edghill spent two fulfilling years at QPR before moving on to Bradford in 2005.
As his playing days drew to a close, Edghill began studying for coaching badges but found it unfulfilling. Instead, he started his own soccer schools and summer camps. Eventually, he was asked to work in a primary school, which led to his current role as a PE teacher at Oasis Academy Harpur Mount. Edghill finds great joy and fulfillment in his work, considering it immensely rewarding.
Richard Edghill’s journey from a young boy playing football in a field to becoming a Manchester City star and ambassador is a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for the club. His autobiography title, ‘Once a Blue, Always a Blue,’ perfectly encapsulates his lifelong connection with Manchester City. Through the highs and lows of his career, Edghill’s loyalty and passion for the club have remained steadfast.