Manchester City, the Premier League’s dominant force for much of the past decade, is on the cusp of a significant transformation as manager Pep Guardiola signals a major squad overhaul. Following a disappointing 2024/25 season that saw the club finish third and exit the Club World Cup in a shocking defeat to Al-Hilal, Guardiola is reportedly ready to part ways with at least six players, including long-serving defender John Stones. The Catalan tactician, known for his meticulous approach, has made it clear that a bloated squad is untenable, even hinting at drastic measures if the situation isn’t addressed. “I said to the club I don’t want that. I don’t want to leave five or six players in the tribune,” Guardiola declared after a match last season, emphasizing his preference for a leaner, more focused roster. “I will quit. Make a shorter squad, I will stay.”
The 2024/25 campaign was a stark departure from City’s usual dominance. Despite heavy investment in the January transfer window, with signings like Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Juma Bah, the team struggled to find its rhythm. The absence of key midfielder Rodri, sidelined early in the season with an ACL injury, exposed vulnerabilities in the squad, and the subsequent trophyless season—the first since 2017—prompted introspection at the Etihad. Guardiola’s frustration with the squad’s size was palpable, as he repeatedly had to leave out talented players like James McAtee, Savinho, and Rico Lewis from matchday squads. “I don’t like to be six, seven players—just in case, no injuries—being at home,” he said, underscoring his philosophy of prioritizing quality over quantity.
Among the players potentially on the chopping block is John Stones, a stalwart of City’s defense for nearly a decade. The 31-year-old England international, whose contract expires next summer, has endured a challenging season marked by injuries and inconsistent form. Despite his versatility and technical ability, Stones has missed significant time, and Guardiola appears open to offers for the defender. “I expect Guardiola would be open to letting him go if an offer arrived,” noted former scout Mick Brown, reflecting the sentiment that City’s hierarchy is ready to move on from several established names. Other players linked with departures include Ilkay Gundogan, whose one-year deal may not guarantee his stay, and Mateo Kovacic, who is reportedly being touted to other clubs.
The need for a squad reduction is compounded by Premier League and UEFA homegrown quota rules, which require eight players trained in England for at least three years before turning 21. With a current roster of 32 players, including new summer signings like Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Marcus Bettinelli, City faces a “very complicated mess,” according to experts. The club’s director of football, Hugo Viana, is tasked with navigating this challenge alongside outgoing chief Txiki Begiristain, aiming to streamline the squad before the new Premier League season kicks off in August.
Guardiola’s vision for the future is clear: a compact, high-energy team capable of reclaiming the Premier League title. The club’s recent signings reflect this ambition, with young, dynamic players like Ait-Nouri and Cherki expected to inject fresh vigor into the squad. However, the departure of veterans like Kyle Walker, who moved to AC Milan on loan and is unlikely to return, and the confirmed exit of Kevin De Bruyne signal the end of an era. The potential sale of players like Nico Gonzalez, who has struggled to secure a regular spot since his January arrival, further underscores Guardiola’s ruthlessness in pursuit of a revitalized team.
As City prepares for the 2025/26 season, the focus is on balancing ambition with pragmatism. Guardiola’s insistence on a smaller squad is not just about tactics but also about fostering a cohesive unit where every player feels valued. “Never is [it] awkward when it’s honest conversations,” he insisted, highlighting his approach to managing player exits. With the transfer window still open, the coming weeks promise significant movement at the Etihad, as City aims to shed excess weight and rebuild for another shot at glory.
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