He was with them so long, it's hard to remember a Man City team without Pablo Zabaleta. But that's the reality of next season, as the right back will be released by Pep Guardiola's team after his contract ends on July 1st.
The Argentinian spent nine years at the Etihad and was involved in some key moments. After all, it was he who opened the scoring against QPR in THAT game, which won City their first Premier League title. 229 appearances is not to be sniffed at either
So it's no surprise that City would do something special to mark his departure. The club invited seven of Zabaleta's biggest fans to pay tribute to their hero in a piece to camera.
Little did they know that Zabaleta himself was waiting behind the curtain, popping out to surprise the fans at the end of their tributes.
There's a magnificent moment when a child dubbed 'mini-Zaba' by his parents breaks down in tears while speaking about his hero's departure, only for Zabaleta to appear and comfort him - after the kid walks away.
We'll miss you, @pablo_zabaleta! #mcfc pic.twitter.com/VwyvjTFwKM
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 26, 2017
'I'm here, yes, it's me, the real Pablo Zabaleta' is a frankly brilliant quote. The look of genuine surprise on the faces of the supporters is heartwarming.
The 32-year-old confirmed his next club on Twitter, as is standard these days. He's heading to West Ham, signing a two-year contract.
I'm delighted to announce I have signed a 2 years contract with @WestHamUtd pic.twitter.com/Sxr5SA5MaM
— Pablo Zabaleta (@pablo_zabaleta) May 26, 2017
Zabaleta won six trophies during his time at Man City, including a pair of Premier League titles and two League Cup. The Hammers will be hoping he can help them towards their first major trophy since 1980.
Do that, and he may just get another tribute video on his retirement.
Top man Zaba.
