Manchester City's new partnership with Durex sparks fan jokes

Manchester City has announced a new partnership ahead of the new football season, naming condom manufacturer Durex as the club's official health and wellbeing partner in China. The announcement triggered a wave of jokes from fans on social media.

Many commenters drew a connection between the new partner's line of business and the club's defensive concerns following midfielder Rodri's move to Barcelona. The Spain captain had represented City since 2019, helping the club win the UEFA Champions League in 2023 and receiving the Ballon d'Or in 2024. Although he struggled with injuries in the past two seasons, Rodri won the World Cup with Spain this summer and was named the tournament's best player.

Fan reactions

Fans on social media joked that City's defense would need more protection than a partnership with a condom brand can offer, with several comments taking an ironic tone about the club's ability to make up for losing an experienced midfielder.

Context

Manchester City has dominated English football over the past decade, winning its first league title since 1968 in 2012 and going on to claim seven more championships, including four in a row from 2021 to 2024. This summer, Italian coach Enzo Maresca took over as head coach from Pep Guardiola. City made a strong start to the new season, beating Bournemouth 2-1 on Sunday.