The year 2025 will likely be remembered as a pivotal period for Manchester City. During the first half of the year, Pep Guardiola’s team fought hard to secure a spot in the Champions League but faced a setback by losing the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace. By the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, several club legends departed, making way for a new generation of players and leaders. While City may not have lifted any trophies in 2025, this year could ultimately be seen as the beginning of a new era of success for the club.
Manchester City faced challenges at the start of 2025 but recovered in the 2024/25 season.
As 2025 kicked off, Manchester City found itself in need of rejuvenation. It became evident that the version of Guardiola’s team as the new year began was nearing its end. Key players like Kyle Walker, Ilkay Gundogan, and Kevin De Bruyne were struggling with their fitness, and injuries further complicated matters for the squad. The January transfer window arrived with a renewed sense of purpose, leading to the signings of Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, Nico, and Omar Marmoush. Each player showcased glimpses of their potential, with Marmoush’s goals proving vital in helping City secure Champions League qualification for the 2025/26 season.
There were numerous significant moments in the first half of 2025, but Pep Guardiola adjusted his tactics, making the team more resilient defensively. This strategic shift paid off, as City achieved third place in the Premier League and reached the FA Cup final, turning a challenging start into a salvaged season.
A bittersweet farewell as club legends departed.
At the end of the 2024/25 season, a number of club icons left Manchester City. Kevin De Bruyne did not have his contract renewed and received a heartfelt farewell from fans that was fitting for his legendary status. His departure was emotional, but it was acknowledged by the supporters he had taken to great heights. Ederson also left for Fenerbahce late in the summer transfer window but, unfortunately, did not have a farewell match at the Etihad, despite his crucial role in City’s successes.
Kyle Walker’s loan move to AC Milan last January marked a somber end to his City career. While he was instrumental in City’s achievements, the way his departure unfolded left mixed feelings among fans. Following his return from Milan, Walker eventually signed with Burnley, but the circumstances surrounding his exit cast a shadow on his legacy.
Meanwhile, Jack Grealish and Manuel Akanji moved on loan for the season to Everton and Inter Milan, respectively. Grealish had once been pivotal during City’s treble-winning season but struggled to recapture that form, making his loan seem necessary. Akanji, although always committed, also found himself in a loan situation, leaving City with many fond memories.
Furthermore, Ilkay Gundogan’s departure for Galatasaray marked a second exit from City after returning from Barcelona. Although the previous season didn’t unfold as he had hoped, he left with his legacy intact.
As 2025 ended, optimism grew for the future of Guardiola’s team.
While beloved players exited, a fresh wave of talent joined City. Rayan Ait-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, James Trafford, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Sverre Nypan were all signed over the summer. Cherki, Donnarumma, and Reijnders injected energy into the squad, while Trafford struggled to find a position with Donnarumma in goal. Injuries also plagued Ait-Nouri, limiting his impact, while Nypan’s signing is viewed as one for the future, currently on loan at Middlesbrough.
In addition, Manchester City competed in the FIFA Club World Cup after the 2024/25 season, although their journey was cut short by Al-Hilal. Nevertheless, the trip to the United States has set the stage for their revitalization as Guardiola’s team begins to find its footing. Despite starting the 2025/26 season with two defeats in their first three Premier League matches, City has bounced back to claim second place, progress in the Champions League, and reach the Carabao Cup semi-final. The team has not yet hit peak performance, with room for improvement ahead.
Key players such as Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, Rayan Cherki, Nico, Nico O’Reilly, Matheus Nunes, Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and Gianluigi Donnarumma have all emerged as crucial parts of Guardiola’s new setup, while Rodri continues his recovery from a serious ACL injury. Expectations are high for what Manchester City can accomplish as they approach 2026.
Final thoughts.
2025 has undeniably been a year of transition for Manchester City. After a period of remarkable success spanning seven seasons, such changes were inevitable. The first half of the year saw City recover from a challenging start, and the groundwork laid during the previous season has begun to yield results.
As we enter 2026, it is evident that Manchester City has turned a corner; the challenges faced in 2025 were necessary for growth. Although the year had its difficult moments, it also instilled a sense of hope for the future, leaving fans optimistic about what lies ahead for Manchester City.