Report: Major Changes Ahead for Man City Squad? | OneFootball

City’s Strategic Conundrum: Balancing Act of Squad Rebuilding and Player Transitions

As Manchester City navigates through the ongoing season, strategic plans for their squad development are already stirring discussions among fans and analysts alike. Sam Lee from The Athletic sheds light on City’s approach which seems to pivot towards a significant squad rebuild in 2025. However, current challenges hint that an earlier intervention might be necessary, especially in the midfield area. “City had planned, perhaps incorrectly in hindsight, to rebuild the squad in 2025, rather than 2024, and the midfield seems like an obvious place to start given their current issues,” Lee notes, suggesting a recalibration might be on the cards sooner than anticipated.

Potential Departures and Tactical Shifts

The winds of change could also see key players moving away from the Etihad. Kyle Walker, a stalwart in City’s defensive lineup, has been teetering on the edge of departure, with 2023 nearly seeing his exit. “Kyle Walker could be moved on, having been close to an exit in 2023, linked with one this summer, and struggling on the pitch,” reports Lee. This could mark a significant shift in City’s defensive strategies as they look to refresh their lineup.

Contract Talks and Future Considerations

Contract renewals are also a critical aspect of City’s immediate concerns. With key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan approaching the end of their current terms, decisions on their futures will be vital. De Bruyne, in particular, faces a season where his performance and fitness levels will likely dictate the terms of any continuation with the club.

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For Manchester City supporters, the revelations from Sam Lee might stir a mix of concern and anticipation. The prospect of an earlier-than-planned squad overhaul could be seen as a proactive adjustment to unforeseen challenges, particularly in the midfield. However, the potential exits of established players like Kyle Walker and possibly Ederson, who had eyed moves away, signal a period of uncertainty.

Supporters might find solace in the fact that City is considering all avenues for reinforcement, including a possible new right-back and additional options on the wings and centre-back positions, contingent on current players’ departures. The need for a backup to Erling Haaland is particularly pressing, given the lack of a direct replacement for Julian Alvarez. The strategy to potentially integrate a midfielder as a false nine underscores Pep Guardiola’s flexibility in tactical planning.

With all these moving parts, City’s strategy towards the 2025 rebuild not only aims to keep the team competitive but also adaptable to the evolving dynamics of football.