’12 over 30′: Man City have changed their priority in the transfer market – Pep Guardiola reveals in latest press conference
Manchester City are entering a new era under Pep Guardiola as the club begins reshaping its squad for the future. Historically, City’s transfer windows have revolved around retaining key players such as Bernardo Silva, Kyle Walker, and Ederson, ensuring their title-winning machine remained intact. However, this season marks a shift in focus.
With Guardiola highlighting in a recent press conference that 12 members of his squad will be over 30 by September 2025, it’s clear the club is prioritizing renewal over retention. This acknowledgment signals the need for fresh legs and a squad evolution reminiscent of the transformation that occurred during Guardiola’s early years at the Etihad.
While Kevin De Bruyne’s contract is nearing its end, the usual sense of urgency is absent. The Belgian playmaker, while brilliant, must now prove his ability to maintain his elite form consistently if he’s to secure a new deal.
City’s January window, historically quiet in terms of first-team signings, has seen a rare shift towards recruitment. The summer is expected to bring even more movement, with a focus on bringing in talent rather than holding onto aging stars.
QUOTES:
Guardiola’s statement at a press conference emphasized the club’s new mindset:
“We have 12 players over 30. That’s a lot for a squad aiming to compete at the highest level year after year. Every player needs to show their worth moving forward.”
City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, is reportedly overseeing this transition, ensuring the next generation of players fits Guardiola’s philosophy while maintaining the club’s competitive edge.
RECALL:
The last time Manchester City underwent such a major squad transformation was in 2017, shortly after Guardiola’s arrival. Back then, an overhaul brought in younger talents who went on to dominate English football. Similarly, this rebuild aims to blend experience with youthful energy to sustain the club’s dominance.
CITATIONS:
This report is based on the information from:
- Guardiola’s press conference, January 2024.
- Internal sources close to Manchester City.
- Historical squad data, Manchester City archives.
KEEP IN MIND:
Manchester City’s transition isn’t a sign of decline but rather a proactive approach to maintaining their supremacy. By focusing on a balance of experience and youth, the club is positioning itself for continued success in the coming years.
As seen in previous rebuilds, Guardiola’s philosophy of reinvention has been a cornerstone of his success, and fans can expect this overhaul to deliver similar results.
