Looking back through the history books for the events, signings and memorable matches that happened on this day in City’s history.

Saturday 3rd September 2005

Pablo Zabaleta makes his debut for Argentina in a 1-0 loss to Paraguay in a World Cup qualifying game. The future City utility player has won 22 caps since then (up to 1 September, 2012), six of which he gained during the Beijing Olympics in which he was a gold medallist.

Saturday 3rd September 1892

The first league match at Hyde Road ends in a 7-0 win for Ardwick against Bootle. Both sides had met previously in the Alliance League, but this was the first taste of League football for both sides. In a parallel with the first League game that will be played at Maine Road 31 years later, the first penalty taken is missed as Ardwick captain Dave Russell places the ball straight into the keeper’s hands.

Monday 3rd September 1894

City play out a 1-1 draw with Burton Wanderers in their first home game under the club’s new Manchester City name, having previously been named Ardwick FC. The Blues wanted to use the game to show that they were a different entity to Ardwick, with a different outlook. The draw reassured some of the support but the 4-1 home win over Burslem Port Vale just five days later acted as the catalyst for increased interest. MCFC had well and truly arrived…

Saturday 3^rd September 1906

City endure what will be the club’s biggest league defeat - 9-1 – during a nightmarish 90 minutes at Goodison Park. The Toffees tore City apart – and this after the Blues had lost the opening day game 4-1 to Woolwich Arsenal. City showed their mettle by winning the return 3-1 at Hyde Road and managed to restore a lot of pride in the process.