Why Manchester City Could Be Considering Changing the Club's Badge

Last month, Manchester City announced they were set to consult fans on the issue of the club badge, with a view to possibly introducing a new design in the near future.

It has been the subject of lengthy debate among Blues fans down the years, with many unhappy with the current crest, introduced in 1997 because of trademark problems with the old design.

The four-week consultation period is designed to give Cityzens members a say over which elements of the three badges are the most important, and which most authentically represent them. 

Ferran Soriano, the club's chief executive, told the official site: “The badge is the most visual representation of Manchester City and is so central to our heritage.

“We are looking for our fans to share their views as to what they consider to be the most authentic symbols of the club. The views of our Cityzens are essential to the process; they will have a real say on the future of our badge.”

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Manchester City to give fans a voice in new badge design #mcfc >> https://t.co/fYbDcpl4ie pic.twitter.com/b5akAC0t6N

— Terrace Life (@TerraceLife_) October 20, 2015"

Manchester football historian Gary James has given a series of lectures to educate supporters on the history of the badge, and this week, he spoke to the Blue Moon Podcast and outlined a brief history for listeners interested in knowing more. James hopes his information will allow fans to submit a more informed opinion via the formal questionnaire sent out by the club to Cityzens. 

The first design to adorn the club shirt was the Manchester coat of arms, and since then, there have been three bespoke badges. 

According to James, the first could go as far back as 1923, and featured three lines representing the three rivers that run through Manchester: the River Irwell, the River Medlock and the River Irk. These are the oldest elements of the Manchester coat of arms and, for many fans, are an essential part of any badge wanting to authentically symbolise what Manchester is about. 

It also boasted a ship, which James believes represents Manchester trading links. Indeed, the direction of the ship points west towards America, which was a key partner during the cotton trade years.

Many fans believe the ship represents the Manchester ship canal, but, as James pointed out, the ship's first usage on the Manchester coat of arms predates its existence. The ship has been the one mainstay on each of the three designs. 

The second badge is arguably the most recognisable. It was first worn in 1972 before being dropped between 1976-81 (although it was still used on club merchandise) and then returning to the shirt between 1981-97. 

Clive Mason/Getty Images

Back in 1972, football was becoming commercialised, with clubs keenly aware that making money from souvenirs and products was key to sustained success. City's vice chairman at the time, Peter Swales, unashamedly admitted City needed a badge he could trademark and use to develop income streams through the sale of merchandise. 

The most striking new feature was perhaps the red rose, used to symbolise Lancashire. County boundaries were redesigned soon after, with City then classed as being in Greater Manchester, but most fans living in the area still saw themselves very much as Lancastrians. 

And then, in 1997, with the club languishing in the second tier of English football and in need of a rebrand, the current crest was introduced. 

Ben Radford/Getty Images

It featured an eagle, taken from the Manchester coat of arms, with three stars at the top. The stars were said to add a continental feel. In other words, they were pretty much meaningless. 

The Latin phrase "Superbia in Proelio" was also introduced. Again, there appears to be little historical significance behind the choice. It is perhaps this lack of authenticity that has seen it fail to really grab supporters. 

With City constantly changing, and with the City Football Group (CFG) meaning the club's global operation is continuing to grow, perhaps the current badge is no longer fit for purpose. With New York City and Melbourne City both boasting circular designs, there's a feeling the club have perhaps realised Manchester City need one too. 

Rankings:

1st: 1972-1997

2nd: 1923(?)-1972 

3rd: 1997-present day 

Fans who do not qualify for Cityzens status can have their say via City Voice, the club's official online fan community. 

Rob Pollard is Bleacher Report's lead Manchester City correspondent and will be following the club from a Manchester base throughout the 2015/16 season. All quotes were obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Follow him on Twitter @RobPollard_.