The 2009-10 campaign delivered a crucial breakthrough season for Manchester City as The Citizens secured a respectable 5th-place finish in the Premier League, their highest in years, and qualified for the Europa League. The season was marked by the controversial mid-season sacking of Mark Hughes and the arrival of Roberto Mancini, a gamble that ultimately paid off as the club pushed to break the 'Big Four' elite. Leading the charge with immense spirit and skill was the sensational new forward Carlos Tevez, whose phenomenal 23 league goals (29 across all competitions) anchored the attack, making this a pivotal year that signaled the beginning of their challenge for the top of English football.