After a disappointing season and a shock elimination against Al-Hilal in the club World Cup, Manchester City begins a strategic transfer window to relaunch a cycle that runs out of steam.
The surprise elimination against Al-Hilal in the round of 16 of the Club World Cup marked a turning point for Manchester City. This unexpected setback, in a season already tarnished by the loss of the title in the Premier League and a quarter of the Champions League, caused an internal questioning. Faced with the breathlessness of the group, Pep Guardiola and its sports leadership decided to rethink the workforce without revolutionizing, but by operating a targeted tightening.
City launched its transfer window with the promising arrivals of Rayan Cherki, to energize the attack, and Rayan Aït-Nouri, to strengthen the left corridor. These reinforcements are part of a desire for technical and mental regeneration, while retaining a solid framework: Stones, Gündogan and Ederson confirmed their commitment to the club. The coach also relies on the revival of certain young people such as Oscar Bobb, and on more precise adjustments, in particular at the post of right side, where Tino Livramento is targeted.
Among the uncertainties, the fate of the replacement goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, the future of Gündogan (which could integrate the staff in 2026) and several potential departures (Grealish, Walker, McATEE). While the 2025-26 season could be the last of Guardiola, the Citizens approach a crucial summer, between the end of the cycle and preparation of a new chapter.
🚨 🇲🇽 ! 💛🖤
Serhou Guirassy 🇬🇳 scored a double on two assists by Karim Adeyemi. ⚽️⚽️
The club … pic.twitter.com/iwdcVwz8pY
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) July 2, 2025
