Another City Academy alumnus for whom 2023–2024 will always be remembered is Mahamadou Susoho.

The defensive midfielder had a fantastic 2022–2023 season with their Under-18s, but injuries had marred his effect throughout the 2022–2023 campaign. A hip condition in particular kept him out of action for an extended period.

But after getting back into shape at the beginning of the 23–24 season, the 19-year-old quickly made an impression with their Under-21 team.

Throughout the year, Susoho’s remarkable technique, unwavering demeanour, and tactical savvy in limiting the opposition’s space and offering an attacking spark proved to be important assets. He also exuded a cool, composed presence on the pitch.

Even though the season proved to be disappointing for City’s Under-21 team in terms of results, Susoho personally benefited from some amazing opportunities that he will undoubtedly carry throughout the remainder of his developing career.

Susoho was selected for City’s travelling first team squad for the team’s last Champions League group match against Red Star Belgrade in December after making a strong impression for the EDS squad during the first half of the campaign in both the UEFA Youth League and the Premier League.

The attention then shifted to Susoho after Academy teammate Micah Hamilton was given his first senior start and celebrated magnificently by giving City an early lead.

In what was an intimidating Rajko Mitic Stadium, he was called upon off the bench for his senior debut 15 minutes from time, and he more than contributed to Pep Guardiola’s team’s 3-2 triumph that completed a flawless group stage.

Susoho called the event “a great moment,” and before the year ended, more amazing events were in store.

Mahamadou was later selected in the official City squad that went to Saudi Arabia to compete in the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup, together with a phalanx of talented young players.

Susoho spent over a week with the City group, which was situated in Jeddah, a city by the Red Sea. During that time, he had the chance to train, learn, and feel what it’s like to be a member of one of the top teams in the world.

After a 3-0 semifinal victory over Urawa Red Diamonds, City’s outstanding play in Saudi Arabia saw them win the global championship with a 4-0 final victory over Fluminense.

In addition to winning his first senior gold, the 19-year-old demonstrated that it was a great chance and educational experience for his future professional life.

Mahamadou’s nine appearances as a substitute in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League—including their away first-leg matchup against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals—added up to an invaluable body of knowledge.

Mahamadou completed a season that he can be proud of with 20 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing an assist.

According to Mahamadou 

I never would have imagined playing against Red Star! I tried not to get too worried, to stay calm, and to make sure I was ready when Pep called my name.

In all honesty, I wasn’t overly anxious. The first few times I walked onto the pitch, I felt the energy of the insane crowd, but other than that, I felt fine.

Pep told me just to play my game and that I was good enough, along with some tactical suggestions.

That was an extremely proud moment. Looking back, it still amazes me that, yeah, I made my Champions League debut!

Pep on Susoho

The Academy is a crucial component of many things for all of the major teams.

We are proud of the Academy for producing so many players and selling so many of them. We also had Mo, who was a tremendously good player.

It is meant as an homage to the Academy. Cole Palmer was in attendance. Gavin Bazunu, James Trafford, and Romeo Lavia. In the Premier League or Championship, there are numerous players from the Academy. They’ve accomplished amazing things. It is high calibre.

We can only hope to have more players of similar calibre in the future.

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