A third straight Premier League title has now arrived at the Etihad, hurting those involved with Manchester United just as much every other since the first 11 years ago.
Manchester City did what they always seem to do, sew together a run so relentless that they unnerve those above - Arsenal, this time - and surpass them with games to spare. It was 11 on the bounce after the 3-0 win against Everton just over a week ago, the win that eventually secured top-spot after the Gunners lost at Nottingham Forest.
Pain for the red half of Manchester is as palpable as ever, but the acute feeling is also heightened with the sense of concern for the near future. The Premier League trophy could just be the beginning of a fortnight in which City go on to win an illustrious treble, adding FA Cup and Champions League glory to their league title as United did so dramatically in 1999.
