Manchester City Faces Squad Overhaul After Disappointing Season

Manchester City experienced a disappointing 2024/25 season, finishing trophyless for the first time since 2016 and narrowly qualifying for the Champions League on the final day. This prompted significant changes at the club, including the arrival of four new players and alterations in Pep Guardiola's coaching staff, with key assistants like Juanma Lillo departing. Despite the squad refresh, City faced an unprecedented challenge as no players wanted to leave the club during the summer transfer window, complicating Guardiola's desire for a smaller squad. The team’s shock early exit from the Club World Cup, losing to Saudi side Al Hilal, drew criticism from fans and raised questions about the squad's readiness, though some see this as an opportunity for rejuvenation ahead of the next season. Experts and insiders, including former Everton CEO Keith Wyness, expect a reinvigorated and mentally refreshed Manchester City to challenge strongly in the upcoming Premier League campaign. Guardiola himself expressed a focus on addressing tactical weaknesses and returning with renewed energy to compete at the highest level.