City first tried to sign Laporte from Athletic Bilbao in 2016, but the move fell through. They returned in January 2018, and the France international arrived during a 100-point Premier League campaign.
The following season established Laporte as a central figure. He helped Guardiola’s side win four domestic trophies, while his goal at Brighton on the final day confirmed the title on 98 points.
“The year where we won four titles was fantastic - fourmidables - it was unbelievable,” Laporte said. “If I have to choose between the treble and fourmidables, for me, even with the Champions League, it's the fourmidables.”
Laporte’s City career was also shaped by resilience. Injuries disrupted his progress, while the emergence of John Stones alongside Ruben Dias eventually pushed him away from Guardiola’s preferred pairing.
His commitment, however, was rarely questioned. In May 2022, after appearing to suffer a season-ending injury at Wolves, Laporte was named in the team to face Aston Villa. With City missing several defenders, he played in the dramatic 3-2 comeback that secured the league title.
He continued to battle for opportunities during City’s treble-winning campaign, but regular football became the priority. The move to Al Nassr followed.
Laporte’s feelings for City have remained unmistakable. “The way they take care of their players there is unique; you only realise it when you leave,” he said.
That warmth has been returned. His performances, his willingness to play through pain and even the light-hearted “I’m Eric Laporte” social-media episode have helped make him a memorable figure in the club’s modern history.
Sunday’s final offers another stage for Laporte, but whatever happens, his Manchester City legacy already appears secure.