Pep Guardiola is experiencing one of the most challenging moments since his arrival at Manchester City. With the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Real Madrid yet to be played, his team is on the brink of elimination after the 2-3 loss in the first leg. A painful defeat that has left many doubts in the English team, which has not managed to show the solidity of previous seasons.
The club is already aware that this summer there will be a change of cycle. After several years dominating English soccer and winning the Champions League in 2023, Guardiola believes the team needs a deep renewal. It is expected that several key players, who have been essential in recent successes, will leave the club next transfer market.
Among the most notable departures will be players like Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish. The Portuguese has been looking for an exit for some time and, despite having been a key man for Guardiola, his continuity is no longer assured. Meanwhile, Grealish, who arrived as a star signing for 100 million, has not performed at the expected level, and City would be willing to listen to offers for him.
De Bruyne Is Already at the Level Guardiola Demands
Another name that will mark this summer market is Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian midfielder has been the great reference for City in recent years, but this season he has shown signs of decline. Injuries have affected his performance, and although he is still a good player, he no longer has the influence he once had on the team's play.
The most likely destination for De Bruyne seems to be Saudi Arabia. Several clubs in the Saudi league are willing to offer him a lucrative contract, and at 32 years old, the Belgian is considering the option of securing his future.
De Bruyne's departure will be a symbolic blow to Guardiola's project. The Belgian has been his extension on the field, a key player in all the titles won in recent years. However, the coach doesn't want to remain stagnant and already has in mind his replacement to lead the midfield in the future.
Manchester City Seeks a Replacement
With De Bruyne's departure, Guardiola wants to sign a top-level midfielder who can take his place. According to "El Nacional.cat," his main target is Dani Olmo. Guardiola believes Olmo has the ideal profile for his play style: creativity, vision, and the ability to make a difference in key moments.
However, Barça has no intention of parting with him. Olmo has arrived as a bet for the present and future, and Hansi Flick considers him a key piece in his project.
City, despite its great economic power, will find it difficult if it wants to take Olmo. Barça not only refuses to sell him, but the player also feels happy with his return to the club. Guardiola will have to look for alternatives if he wants to find a replacement for De Bruyne, because everything indicates that Barça will not give in this case.