# Philipp Lahm: Man City are joyful but detached from their roots

In a Guardian Sport opinion piece, former player Philipp Lahm says Manchester City have been a joy to watch but have become detached from their roots. The commentary matters as a critique of club identity and modern elite football amid sustained success.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### Sports
- [The Guardian Sport](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/21/manchester-city-fifa-rules-grassroots-philipp-lahm) — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 11:00:04 GMT