Manchester City’s Squad Downsizing Plans
In an effort to ensure player happiness and maintain team morale, Pep Guardiola, the head coach of Manchester City, has announced plans to downsize his current squad before the transfer window closes. Currently, City has brought 27 players to the United States for the FIFA Club World Cup, which includes several recent signings such as Rayan Cherki, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, and Marcus Bettinelli. However, due to an Achilles injury, Mateo Kovacic will not be participating in this tournament.
Guardiola’s Roster and Team Dynamics
Guardiola’s roster is notably missing several key players, including Jack Grealish, Kyle Walker, Kalvin Phillips, and James McAtee. The coach had previously expressed a strong desire to work with a more streamlined squad, stating that he would resign if obliged to manage an overly large team. During a recent press briefing in Atlanta before the match against Al Ain, he acknowledged the likelihood of needing to release some players to maintain a productive environment.
“I would love to have the players that we have now all season,” Guardiola remarked. “However, if we have too many in the squad, some will inevitably feel disheartened and disappointed. I want to avoid that situation.”
He continued, emphasizing his preference for a more compact squad size of around 20 outfield players and three goalkeepers, indicating that several of those currently in the squad might have to depart before the start of the Premier League season in August.
Future of Ilkay Gündogan
Guardiola was also queried about Ilkay Gündogan, the veteran midfielder who is reportedly under consideration by Galatasaray, especially following Rodri’s comeback and Reijnders’ addition from AC Milan. The 34-year-old player only has a year remaining on his contract and faces increased competition for a starting position.
“I haven’t discussed his future with him, and if he weren’t meant to be here, he wouldn’t be.”
He reassured that Gündogan remains integral to the squad as of now but acknowledged the need for potential adjustments as the transfer window progresses, allowing for a more manageable player roster that can keep all members engaged and content throughout the season.
