Guardiola Plans Manchester City Rebuild As Grealish, Walker, And Others Set For Exit

‎The Club World Cup, and the focus now shifts to a major squad overhaul and crucial decisions ahead in the transfer market.

‎Their 4-3 extra-time loss to Al Hilal represents a low point for Pep Guardiola, coming after a year marred by setbacks in domestic and European competitions.

‎While the tournament was viewed as an opportunity to reset and claim another trophy, it instead has heightened pressures on the squad and its future direction.

‎Guardiola is often accused of spending his way out of problems, but City had already done the bulk of their transfer business before heading to the United States.

‎Manchester City’s Strategy with Their New Signings Unveiled

‎Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Rayan Cherki were brought in to become regular starters. The plan was to integrate them into the team, advance deep into the tournament, and then prepare for the 2025-26 season.

‎However, that plan was disrupted by Al Hilal’s defeat. While the club may consider another high-profile signing as a response, it is not currently a top priority.

‎Sources suggest that the only position actively being targeted for recruitment is right-back, with Tino Livramento identified as their main candidate.

‎The focus outside of that is who leaves the club in the coming weeks.

‎City Aim to Trim Squad Ahead of Summer Rebuild

‎City is expected to streamline the squad this summer. Guardiola does not want a bloated dressing room, and several players are under serious consideration for departure.

‎Among those mentioned are Jack Grealish, John Stones, Ilkay Gündoğan, Kalvin Phillips, Kyle Walker, and James McAtee. There is also speculation surrounding goalkeeper Ederson, who had a disappointing performance in the defeat to Al Hilal.

‎While clubs in Saudi Arabia are interested in him, Manchester City has publicly indicated that he will remain with the club.

‎Grealish is the most high-profile, and his departure is almost certain. Interest from abroad is growing, and the player has been told he needs to be involved every week at a high level if he wants to push himself back into the England squad.

‎He would lean towards a stay in England if the right move was on offer.

‎A loan transfer is currently viewed as more practical than a permanent sale, given the financial complexities involved. Jack Grealish, who cost £100 million and earns £350,000 per week, has attracted interest from Newcastle, Everton, and Tottenham, while Napoli and AC Milan have also made contact from Serie A.

‎Defender John Stones is drawing interest from his former club Everton, and Brighton is also monitoring his situation. Discussions with the player are expected soon to assess his preference on how to proceed.

‎Ilkay Gündoğan, who was re-signed last summer, has attracted interest from other clubs. Although he was initially expected to have a limited, impactful role last season, injuries meant he was utilized quite frequently.

‎Manchester City have long considered offering him a non-playing role upon retirement, but for now, opportunities in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey are emerging.

‎Meanwhile, midfielder Kalvin Phillips has become somewhat of an outcast and is expected to leave the club. Despite recently undergoing surgery, a transfer before the transfer window closes remains a priority.

‎McAtee is also set to leave. The talented youngster has interest from five Bundesliga clubs, with Bayer Leverkusen holding long-term interest that has always been of interest to him. There is interest within England, too.

‎Phil Foden’s role remains delicate, but he is too iconic to be considered for transfer. After a difficult season, there are doubts about Guardiola’s trust in him but the player is committed to reclaiming a key starting role next season.

‎Meanwhile, veteran defender Kyle Walker is set to depart, with Everton showing interest, while Kevin De Bruyne has already secured a move to Napoli.

‎This summer marks a significant period of transition for the City as it ushers in a new era.

‎The focus now is on ensuring the team is prepared for the start of the Premier League season in August.