This summer, Pep Guardiola will have to deal with a brand-new challenge: how to elevate a treble-winning squad.
By defeating Inter in Istanbul, City finally put an end to their search for a Champions League trophy. They were able to ape United’s 1998-1999 team thanks to the victory, the league title, and the FA Cup final triumph over Manchester United.
The loss of certain key players, with Ilkay Gundogan among those rumored to be leaving, may be Guardiola’s biggest problem. Mirror Football examines the possible advantages and disadvantages before the defending league winners attempt to win another championship.
Goalkeeper and Defense
Concerning goalkeeping, there isn’t anything to be concerned about. In the Champions League final, Ederson proved his value, and then some, while Stefan Ortega occasionally filled in admirably.
Long-time right-back Kyle Walker in front of him has been linked with a return to Sheffield United following the Blades’ promotion to the top division. With John Stones excelling in a role that varies depending on whether or not City has the ball, the England international was no longer a lock for selection towards the conclusion of the previous season.
On the left, Nathan Ake became a favourite of Guardiola, with Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias frequently the middle pair of choice. Next season, anticipate more of the same, but there’s a good chance City will replicate the surprising move for Swiss international Akanji and sign a new defender who hasn’t even been mentioned.
Midfield
Ilkay Gundogan’s future, Guardiola’s first City acquisition, is the main concern for City. After seven seasons in Manchester, the captain’s contract is up, and he is considering his options in light of interest from some of Europe’s heavyweights.
This issue might be resolved by a transfer for Declan Rice, and City is said to be aggressively looking for a transfer for the West Ham captain. Although Rice’s possible preference for Arsenal may stand in the way of a player-plus-cash deal, Hammers manager David Moyes is a fan of out-of-favor City player Kalvin Phillips.
Other places, like Rodri’s and Kevin De Bruyne’s, appear to be secure. However, while the Belgian recovers from his injury, City might feel the need to bring in a fresh face.
Forwards
It feels instructive that Phil Foden, rather than Riyad Mahrez, replaced De Bruyne after he left the Champions League final due to injury. Foden appears to be in the lead for that place on the right if Bernardo Silva decides to leave, which again, there are suggestions he may.
Riyad Mahrez is the other front-runner in the race. Although the Saudi Pro League has expressed interest, City might profit if they are presented with a sizable bid for the Algerian.
Little has been done to indicate that Jack Grealish and Erling Haaland won’t fill the other two front three positions in the upcoming season. But given that Julian Alvarez is beginning his second full season on City’s roster, he might be in line for increased playing time throughout the course of the season.