Deep Analysis: Is Manchester City on the Brink of a New Era?
Manchester City could be on the verge of recording their lowest points total in nine seasons during the 2024-25 campaign. Despite competing for a title in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, the team suffered early eliminations in the Champions League and the League Cup. A period of 13 matches with an irregular performance, including a single victory, three draws, and nine defeats, marks a decline for a club that dominated the Premier League in recent years.
The new sporting director, Hugo Viana, will oversee the team’s reconstruction. The club has already invested a considerable sum, close to 250 million euros, in young prospects. However, there are unknowns that could affect this process.
The most uncertain situation is the 130 charges filed by the Premier League, which could invalidate any planning if the club is excluded or fined. While awaiting a resolution, the team must move forward.
Pep Guardiola’s future also raises questions. His contract ends at the end of the 2024-25 season, but he chose to extend it for two more years in November 2024. Guardiola’s situation is special, but the club seems to be at a turning point. It remains to be seen whether Guardiola prefers a medium-term reconstruction with young talents or if he seeks to compete at the highest level immediately.
Another relevant aspect is the club’s ownership. It has been 17 years since the acquisition by Abu Dhabi, which has invested hundreds of millions of pounds. After almost two decades of success on the field, the interest in continuing to support the project is questioned.
Some interpret the club’s legal battles, the signing strategy and the intensification of income at the Etihad as a sign of a transition towards a more sustainable model, which could attract new investors. However, Guardiola may want to get back on the winning track immediately.
After seasons of moderate spending, the team has room to act in the transfer market, and has committed long-term to Erling Haaland. They could invest up to 150 million euros, taking advantage of the income from the Club World Cup.
A continuación, un análisis de los jugadores clave del equipo.
Goalkeepers
Éderson: His continuity is debated. It is suggested to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
Stefan Ortega: His departure is recommended.
Scott Carson: It is suggested to keep him and extend his contract.
Defensas
Rúben Dias: It is recommended to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
Abdukodir Khusanov: It is suggested to keep it and lend it.
Nathan Aké: The debate is between selling him or keeping him without extending his contract.
Manuel Akanji: It is recommended to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
John Stones: The debate is between keeping him without extending his contract or selling him.
Vitor Reis: It is recommended to loan him out.
Josko Gvardiol: It is recommended to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
Rico Lewis: He’s debating whether to sell it or keep it.
Nico O’Reilly: It is recommended to keep him and extend his contract.
Matheus Nunes: It is recommended to keep him.
Kyle Walker: His departure is recommended.
Yan Couto: He will join Borussia Dortmund permanently.
Issa Kaboré: It is recommended to loan him out.
Juma Bah: The debate is between loaning him out or keeping him to assess his progress.
Midfielders
Rodri: The debate is between keeping him without extending his contract or keeping him and extending his contract.
Nico Gonzalez: It is recommended to keep it.
Mateo Kovacic: It is recommended to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
Ilkay Gündogan: His contract was already maintained and extended (clause activated by minutes played).
Bernardo Silva: It is recommended to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
Kevin de Bruyne: He will be let go.
Claudio Echeverri: It is recommended to keep it.
James McAtee: He is debating whether to sell him or keep him and extend his contract.
Kalvin Phillips: It is recommended to loan him out.
Máximo Perrone: It is recommended to keep him to evaluate his progress.
Forwards
Jérémy Doku: It is recommended to keep it.
Jack Grealish: It is recommended to keep him, but not to extend his contract.
Phil Foden: The debate is between keeping him and extending his contract, or selling him.
Savinho: It is recommended to keep it.
Oscar Bobb: It is recommended to keep it.
Erling Haaland: It is recommended to keep him.
Omar Marmoush: It is recommended to keep him.
In summary, Manchester City is at a crucial moment, with the need to renew and rejuvenate the team, as well as incorporate talent regardless of position. Guardiola’s ability to adapt to different tactical systems will be fundamental.
