Manchester City is at a pivotal moment. The exits of Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva, and John Stones signify the loss of 29 seasons of combined success and institutional knowledge. Additionally, with Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gündogan, Éderson, Manuel Akanji, and director of football Txiki Begiristain all departing last summer, it’s clear that the club is undergoing significant change.
Important decisions lie ahead, and Mark Ogden and Gabriele Marcotti are here to address the pressing issues facing the club.
This marks the fifth installment in this year’s Keep or Dump series, which analyzes critical questions facing the Premier League and Europe’s major clubs during the summer transfer window. Previous entries featured: Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea.
1. Guardiola is no longer with the club after a decade of success. What does the future hold for his successor? Could this change be beneficial?
No one expects Guardiola’s successor to be just as formidable—after all, he’s one of the greatest ever. The next manager is likely to be viewed as a downgrade, but the situation shouldn’t mirror the turmoil Manchester United faced after Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013. City has been proactive in planning for this transition, with personnel changes beginning while Guardiola was still at the helm.
The candidate City appears to favor, Enzo Maresca, is a strong fit; he served as Guardiola’s assistant during their treble-winning season and has Premier League experience at Chelsea. While success isn’t guaranteed, he promises stability during this transition.
Regarding whether his leaving is a good thing, given the disappointing title challenge that fizzled against Bournemouth and a rough first half of the last season, one could argue Guardiola’s need for a break could indicate that this change is for the best.
2. City faces 130 charges and is awaiting a verdict. How can they safeguard their interests?
City maintains their innocence and has found the process lengthy, leading to uncertainty about the independent panel’s verdict. They could face heavy fines, points deductions, or even relegation or expulsion.
City’s strategy has been to carry on as usual, exemplified by Erling Haaland’s 10-year contract extension shortly after the hearing. Despite the underlying risks, they’ve still been able to attract players.
The extended duration of the case might inadvertently benefit City, as the most serious charges pertain to the years 2009-10 through 2017-18, a period before the arrival of many current players and staff.
3. Rodri’s contract runs until 2027. Should City extend it or consider a replacement?
Having won the Ballon d’Or in 2024 but missed an entire season due to injury, Rodri turns 30 in June. Mark believes interest from Real Madrid could prompt a change, given Rodri may no longer be a reliable option due to fitness concerns. It would be practical for City to consider moving him on.
Gab, however, questions the demand for Rodri, taking into account his salary and upcoming free-agent status. While securing a successor is important, maintaining Rodri for another year could provide stability for the new manager.
Both analysts eye Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest as a potential replacement, though they differ in their assessment of his suitability for the Rodri role.
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Burley: No guarantee Man City’s success continues without Guardiola
4. With Nathan Aké, Mateo Kovacic, and Jack Grealish all set to become free agents in June 2027, should any be extended now?
None warrant extensions at this stage. They are all over 30, high earners, with two coming off serious injuries, meaning there’s no pressing need to secure their transfer value.
City should consider moving Aké and Grealish, especially since Aké might welcome a transfer given his limited opportunities. Grealish needs to prove his fitness before entertaining a move, but if he shines in pre-season, he could be valuable to the team.
Kovacic should remain as his experience could be essential, particularly if Rodri departs, though an extension isn’t necessary.
5. Josko Gvardiol has had a standout season despite injuries, with his contract ending in 2028. Should City look to extend?
With Aké potentially leaving and City having a surplus of quality central defenders, the situation is complicated. The focus will depend on the new manager’s approach, whether it’s Maresca or someone else. City also has younger talent on loan, making Gvardiol’s future uncertain.
Mark is more comfortable taking the wait-and-see approach, while Gab insists clarity is essential early on to address players’ expectations and roles.
6. City has numerous players whose contracts expire in 2028, including Nunes, Jérémy Doku, Rico Lewis, and Kalvin Phillips. What actions should be taken?
Doku deserves a contract renewal soon while City can be more patient with Nunes to see how he fits under the new manager. Phillips may need another loan after struggling to find a permanent home.
Regarding Lewis, after an impactful debut season, his role diminished last year. Mark advocates a transfer, while Gab believes it’s prudent to first gauge his standing with the new coach before making a decision.
7. Phil Foden has experienced a dip in form over the past two seasons but has received a long-term contract. With Silva’s departure and Rodri’s situation, how should City approach rebuilding the midfield?
Silva was irreplaceable, and while Mark believes the squad can adapt, Gab urges a comprehensive evaluation of the formation. Cherki can cover Silva’s attacking contributions, but Foden’s role remains uncertain. City must determine if they need a new central midfielder to complement Rodri.
City initially viewed Trafford as their long-term goalkeeper, but acquiring Donnarumma changed their plans. Despite the challenges that may come with Donnarumma’s style, he remains an exceptional shot-stopper.
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While Trafford has shown promise, the club must consider his long-term position if he isn’t ready for No. 2 duties. Mark suggests moving Donnarumma could address both financial and tactical concerns, as his style might not suit the club’s philosophy.
Overall, the new manager’s vision will guide City through this transitional phase. The commitment to Foden is a key aspect, especially amid changes in midfield following Silva’s exit and Rodri’s uncertain future. They need to secure a top midfielder, assess their defensive lineup, and consider Gvardiol’s position as they undergo this transitional period. Despite the challenges of the post-Pep era, City retains a solid foundation and should remain competitive across various fronts.