Manchester City is reportedly gearing up for a significant reshuffle in their defensive lineup, with eyes set on Espanyol’s promising right-back, Omar El Hilali.
As the Premier League champions prepare for a future beyond the veteran Kyle Walker, they are positioning themselves in a competitive race with Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion for the signature of the 21-year-old Moroccan talent.
Walker’s Waning Dominance
At 34, Kyle Walker remains a crucial figure in Manchester City’s defense. However, signs of a gradual decline in his performance have prompted the club to explore long-term replacements.
With Walker turning 35 next May, the need for a younger and dynamic option at right-back has become evident.
Why El Hilali at Etihad?
Omar El Hilali has emerged as one of Espanyol’s standout performers this season. The versatile defender, who can also operate as a center-back, has been a mainstay in Manolo Gonzalez’s lineup, starting all 12 La Liga matches this term.
El Hilali’s consistent displays, coupled with his ability to adapt defensively, make him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking to bolster their backline.
A product of Espanyol’s academy, El Hilali has already amassed 63 senior appearances for the club. Internationally, he has represented Morocco at the Under-20 and Under-23 levels, showcasing his potential on the global stage.
Man City’s Plans Under New Leadership
The transfer comes at a time of transition for Manchester City, with Hugo Viana set to replace Txiki Begiristain as the club’s director of football in the summer of 2025.
Viana’s arrival aligns with Pep Guardiola’s expected contract extension until 2026, paving the way for a fresh wave of talent acquisitions.
El Hilali’s reported release clause of €15m (£12.5m) offers a cost-effective option for City, but they are not alone in pursuing him. Aston Villa and Brighton are also monitoring his progress, making the competition for his signature increasingly fierce.
A Strategic Move
Should El Hilali join Manchester City, he would enter a highly competitive environment, learning from seasoned professionals like Walker and Rico Lewis. The move would not only strengthen City’s defensive depth but also ensure a seamless transition in the right-back role for years to come.
Espanyol fans will be watching closely as their prized talent continues to attract interest from Europe’s elite. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s pursuit of El Hilali signals their commitment to maintaining dominance in both domestic and international competitions.
The coming months will reveal whether City can secure this exciting prospect and position themselves for another era of defensive stability.
