Exclusive: Alvaro Negredo reveals initial confusion over Manchester City fans’ chant | OneFootball

Former Manchester City striker Alvaro Negredo has revealed his initial confusion at one chant from supporters during his time at the Etihad Stadium.

Negredo’s single season in Manchester remains a fond memory for many supporters, with the Spaniard delivering a superb 2013/14 campaign that included a stunning run of goals across domestic and European competitions.

His physical style, ruthless finishing, and instant chemistry with Manuel Pellegrini’s squad made him a quick fan favourite. Yet behind the scenes, the striker admits there were moments of early cultural confusion as he adjusted to English football.

Negredo has often spoken warmly about his bond with the club, from respect of his teammates to appreciation for City’s travelling fans. Off the pitch, adapting to a new league and language brought its challenges, but the former Spain international insists those experiences only strengthened his connection with supporters who embraced him from day one.

And his memories of that squad are clearly vivid, particularly when discussing the defensive battles he faced in training. Negredo pointed to the physicality and competitiveness within the group as key factors in his development and comfort in the Premier League.

Speaking exclusively to City Xtra, thanks to BetVictor Casino, Alvaro Negredo reflected on his time at the club and particularly the most difficult defender he had to face – naming one of his teammates at the Etihad Stadium.

“There were many intense defensive battles. But I remember my first game with City, we were on tour in Japan and it rained a lot. John Stones is a very strong centre-back,” Negredo revealed.

The former Spain international continued on Stones, “He came in very hard and in a jump he got me from behind and rolled me completely.

“I fell where there was mud on the field and I was left with the shirt full of mud and the pain that also came with it. It was difficult, but I’ve recovered in time!”

Reflecting on his bond struck with Manchester City supporters during his time at the Etihad Stadium and off the back of a stellar individual 2013/14 season, Alvaro Negredo said, “I think from the beginning, I fit in very well.

“In the first few games, I wasn’t playing, but almost everyone scored goals. Then I had more continuity as a starter in many games. But it’s true that the relationship came very fast, and I remember when I scored my first goal and it was special.”

Looking back on the iconic chants of ‘beast’ from the terraces of Manchester City supporters every time he scored, Negredo revealed, “I didn’t speak English very well, and I didn’t understand, and it sounded like they were booing me.

“I didn’t know how to say the word ‘beast’ in English, and since they said it with the northern accent I thought they were insulting me. So I remember asking Pablo Zabaleta, I said, Why? I scored a goal, right?’

“And his answer was, ‘No, no, what they’re telling you is that you’re a beast, it’s the opposite’.”

Alvaro Negredo’s humorous misunderstanding is likely to rekindle fond memories among Manchester City fans, many of whom still regard him as one of the club’s most iconic performers.

His recollection also highlights the close-knit nature of the squad at the time, with senior figures like Zabaleta helping foreign players settle into life. The Spaniard’s affection for the club remains clear, and his comments will no doubt spark further nostalgia about his unforgettable spell in sky blue.