Scott Carson: A Veteran’s Influence in Manchester City’s Locker Room
Despite playing a minimal role on the pitch in recent years, Scott Carson has earned immense respect from his Manchester City teammates, with Kyle Walker describing him as “one of the people you need around.” This opinion, shared by Walker on The Kyle Walker Podcast, sheds light on the incredible character and value Carson brings to the squad, even as the 39-year-old goalkeeper sits as City’s third-choice behind Ederson and Stefan Ortega.
Scott Carson’s Remarkable Career and Legacy
Carson’s journey in football began in 2003 at Leeds United, and his career has spanned over two decades, filled with notable achievements. While his appearances for City have been few—only two matches since joining in 2019—his trophy haul tells a different story. Carson has accumulated four Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, an FA Cup, two League Cups, and a Club World Cup.
His first taste of glory came in 2005, when he was an unused substitute in Liverpool’s iconic Champions League victory in Istanbul. A year later, he was part of the Reds’ squad that won the FA Cup. Despite not having kept a Premier League clean sheet since 2011, Carson’s career trajectory continued to rise with key stints at Bursaspor, Wigan, Derby, and eventually Manchester City, where he was signed permanently by Pep Guardiola after two successful loan spells.
The Value of a Veteran in the Changing Room
Walker praised Carson’s professionalism and commitment, noting the mental strength required to remain motivated as a third-choice goalkeeper. “For someone of his age to have played the amount of games he’s played… to come in every day knowing you’re the third-choice keeper… mentally, I have to take my hat off to him,” Walker said. Despite his limited game time, Carson’s presence in the squad is invaluable. As Walker put it, “Scott Carson could retire, but to still have the love for football and do what he does, these are the people you need around the place.”
Pep Guardiola’s High Praise for Carson’s Leadership
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has also highlighted Carson’s influence within the club. Guardiola often encourages young players to learn from Carson, not just on the pitch but in the locker room, praising his leadership and professionalism. “Sometimes as a manager you get the opportunity to know people like him,” said Guardiola. “He’s like a captain, built incredible love for the team. I’m pretty sure when we need him, he’ll respond.”
Guardiola has consistently emphasized that young players at City should look to Carson for guidance. “The best advice I could give to the young players is to stay around Scott Carson as much as possible,” Guardiola shared. “Every second he is training, every minute you get on the pitch with him, you value. It’s like young actors being with experienced actors on a set.”
Carson’s Continued Role at Manchester City
Despite spending most of his time as a backup goalkeeper, Carson’s loyalty and leadership have earned him multiple one-year contract extensions at Manchester City. The club’s faith in his experience and ability to mentor younger players reflects the unique role Carson plays in the team, making him a key figure in City’s squad, even without frequent first-team action.
Will Carson’s journey at Manchester City continue with another contract extension? Only time will tell, but his impact on the club’s culture and its younger players remains undeniable.
