City are reportedly set to allow two of their longest-serving players to leave the club
Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne ‘to leave Man City’ this summer with stunning replacement already chosen
Manchester City are planning to allow both Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne to leave the club this summer, according to a new report.
De Bruyne is out of contract at the Etihad Stadium this summer, having signed a new five-year contract back in 2019.
He was linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League last year but decided to enter the final year of his deal at City.
This campaign has been largely a disappointment for the Belgian, 34, as he has been in and out of the City lineup. He has, however, had eight goal contributions in 19 Premier League games domestically.
Silva, meanwhile, has been a near ever-present for Pep Guardiola’s side this season but the 30-year-old come in for some criticism from fans for his approach.
Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne pictured in action for Man City (Image: Getty)
Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne pictured in action for Man City (Image: Getty)
According to a new report, Guardiola is set to part company with both players and will allow De Bruyne to run his contract down before moving on.
Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg claims that Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is lined up to replace the duo.
It is noted that his agency, CAA Stellar, has close ties with City as they helped to facilitate Omar Marmoush’s move to the club from Frankfurt in January.
The France midfielder is keen to remain at Real, according to Don Balon, but only if Carlo Ancelotti remains at the club beyond this season.
Image: Twitter/@Plettigoal
Camavinga is said to have a close relationship with Ancelotti and may not stay at the club if he is replaced at the end of the campaign, with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso the current favourite to step in.
The midfielder was linked with a loan move to Arsenal in 2023 but those claims were quickly rubbished by the player’s agent.
Fichajes claim that Camavinga could be available for as little as €70 million this summer, which would surely spark the interest of City bosses.
The 22-year-old, however, still has four years remaining on his contract and has been a regular member of the starting XI when fit – meaning City may have to pay a much larger fee to their Champions League rivals.
Manchester City, under the management of Pep Guardiola, is reportedly preparing for a significant squad overhaul, with plans to part ways with several of their longest-serving players. This strategic move aims to rejuvenate the team following a season that fell short of expectations.
Kyle Walker’s Departure to AC Milan
One of the most notable exits is that of Kyle Walker, who has been an integral part of Manchester City since his arrival from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017. Walker, now 34, has contributed significantly to the club’s success, amassing six Premier League titles and playing a pivotal role in the historic treble-winning season of 2023. Despite his achievements, Walker sought a new challenge abroad, leading to his loan move to AC Milan until the end of the season, with an option for a permanent transfer. In his farewell message, Walker expressed profound gratitude towards the club, manager Pep Guardiola, teammates, and fans, reflecting on the memorable moments and successes during his tenure.
Walker’s decision to join AC Milan over a more lucrative offer from the Middle East underscores his desire to continue competing at the highest level in European football. His move to Milan not only provides him with a fresh environment but also aligns with his personal aspirations, including reaching 100 caps for the England national team.
John Stones’ Potential Exit
Another significant development is the potential departure of John Stones, who joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016. Stones has been a stalwart in the defense, known for his composure on the ball and defensive prowess. Over his nine-year spell at the club, he has made 277 appearances and has been instrumental in securing multiple titles, including six Premier League championships.
Reports suggest that Guardiola is considering a substantial squad revamp, with Stones among the players who could be moved on to facilitate this transition. This decision highlights the manager’s intent to refresh the squad with younger talent, ensuring sustained competitiveness in domestic and European competitions.
Kevin De Bruyne’s Uncertain Future
Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s longest-serving player, is also facing an uncertain future at the club. Since his arrival in 2015, De Bruyne has been the creative heartbeat of the team, providing numerous assists and crucial goals. However, recent reports indicate that Guardiola is contemplating significant changes, with De Bruyne potentially among those who could depart. This speculation arises amid a broader strategy to rejuvenate the squad following a season that did not meet the club’s high standards.
Strategic Squad Overhaul
The potential departures of Walker, Stones, and De Bruyne are part of a broader strategy by Guardiola to overhaul the squad. This approach aims to address the challenges faced during a season that saw the team fall short in key competitions, including an early exit from the Champions League. The manager’s intent is to inject fresh talent into the squad, ensuring that the team remains competitive at the highest levels.
In the January transfer window, Manchester City made significant acquisitions, including Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush, who joined for €70 million. Marmoush’s arrival is seen as a move to bolster the attacking options, especially considering the team’s recent struggles in front of goal. His impressive goal-scoring record in the Bundesliga positions him as a valuable asset for the club’s future ambitions.
Impact on Team Dynamics
The departure of long-serving players like Walker and the potential exits of Stones and De Bruyne are poised to have a significant impact on the team’s dynamics. These players have not only contributed on the pitch but have also been influential figures in the dressing room, providing leadership and experience. Their absence will necessitate the emergence of new leaders within the squad, a transition that Guardiola will need to manage carefully to maintain team cohesion.
Moreover, the integration of new signings will be crucial in ensuring that the team’s playing style and philosophy remain intact. Guardiola’s tactical acumen will be tested as he blends the existing core with fresh talent, aiming to create a harmonious and effective unit capable of challenging for top honors.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The news of these potential departures has elicited mixed reactions among the Manchester City fan base. While there is an understanding of the need for evolution and adaptation, the prospect of losing iconic players is met with a sense of nostalgia and apprehension. Fans acknowledge the contributions of these stalwarts but also express optimism about the club’s future under Guardiola’s guidance.
Supporters are hopeful that the incoming players will uphold the club’s traditions and contribute to sustained success. The anticipation of witnessing new talents in action is tempered by the recognition of the challenges inherent in such a significant transition.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s reported decision to allow some of their longest-serving players to leave marks a pivotal moment in the club’s history. The departures of figures like Kyle Walker, John Stones, and potentially Kevin De Bruyne signify the end of an era characterized by unprecedented success. However, this strategic overhaul underscores the club’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation in the ever-evolving landscape of football.
As the team navigates this transitional phase, the focus will be on integrating new talents, maintaining competitive standards, and preserving the ethos that has propelled Manchester City to the pinnacle of English football. The upcoming seasons will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of this strategy and the club’s ability to sustain its position among Europe’s elite.
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