Presented by Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak on Sunday 23 August, the special tribute was officially unfurled at our state-of-the-art Women’s First Team facility in dedication to the former captain’s distinguished contribution to the Club from 2014 to 2024.
It is the latest in a series of honours to City legends including Yaya Toure, Joe Hart, David Silva, Vincent Kompany, Sergio Aguero, Fernandinho, Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and John Stones.
Speaking at the Etihad Stadium ahead of City’s opening Premier League victory over Bournemouth, Houghton said being immortalised by City is a truly special moment for her.
“It was very overwhelming for me,” she explained.
“Everyone knows how much this club means to me and my family. To be alongside the likes of [Kevin] De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Vincent Kompany, I’m really grateful and thankful.
“To be amongst those players and to be given such an accolade, to be rewarded like that is a really special moment.”
After joining the Club in 2014, Houghton went on to become our record appearance holder while being the leader and driving force behind a decade of success for City.
During her illustrious time with the Blues, the defender won eight major honours, including the 2016 Barclays Women’s Super League title, three FA Cups and four League Cups.
And the ex-England international described her 10-year City spell as a privilege of a lifetime.
She added: “The welcome I’ve had today is also really special. I always wanted to be here as long as possible but I didn’t envisage the success we’ve had.
“It was the best 10 or 11 years of my life at this Club. Without a doubt [one of the most special moments ever].
“I’ve loved every single minute and to be an ambassador for such an amazing Club, I know how lucky I am and I give it my all every day.
“We have the best fans in the world.”
