Pep Guardiola Confirms More Man City Departures Imminent but Who is In Danger?
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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola || imago

Pep Guardiola Confirms More Man City Departures Imminent but Who is In Danger?

Joel Omotto 12:30 - 22.06.2025

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola wants to cut down his bloated squad leaving a number of stars facing uncertain futures at the club.

Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has confirmed the club will actively reduce its squad size this summer.

Guardiola acknowledges the challenge of keeping all players satisfied with the current number, particularly after eight signings since January.

City travelled to the Club World Cup in America with 24 outfield players and three goalkeepers. They face Al Ain on Monday morning in their second group game, aiming to secure early qualification.

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While the squad boasts considerable depth, players like Ilkay Gundogan and the injured Mateo Kovacic have attracted interest from other clubs.

Meanwhile, Jack Grealish, Kalvin Phillips, and Kyle Walker, absent from the traveling party, are also expected to depart.

Guardiola Keen to Have a Squad of 20 Outfield Players

Ilkay Gundogan is among players who could leave Man City | Instagram

Despite previously suggesting the need for a larger squad due to last season's injury woes, Guardiola now recognises the difficulty of managing a large group. He typically prefers around 20 outfield players at the Etihad Stadium.

“No news, good news. I don't know anything, I didn't speak with him, and if he will not be part he would not be here,” Guardiola said when asked about Gundogan’s future as quoted by Dailymail.

“But at the same time, we have - right now - a long squad, too many players, so we cannot go with 26, 27 players this season because there would be more without playing, and step by step maybe a few players are going to more.”

Guardiola also provided an update on Rodri's fitness, stating that the midfielder isn't ready to start despite a 30-minute appearance in the 2-0 victory over Wydad AC.

The manager praised the impact of South American teams in the competition and hinted at a possible future managing on that continent, before turning his attention to the potential challenge posed by Al Ain, a club owned by Sheikh Mansour's brother.