Pep Guardiola’s departure marks the end of a successful era in Manchester City’s history. Six Premier League titles, a Champions League crown and a decade of dominance have set standards few European clubs can achieve.
Now comes the hard part. Whether Enzo Maresca or another successor takes over at the Etihad Stadium, the next manager is inheriting a squad still full of top talent, but in need of freshening up in key areas.
Some players remain key to City’s future, while others are entering the final stages of their cycle at the club.
Here, we look at who should stay, who should go, and who can benefit from taking out a loan.
Goalkeepers
James Trafford
City moved to bring Trafford back because they believe he can be their long-term No.1, and his performances this season have justified that belief. Managing to be calm, commanding in spirit and increasingly confident under pressure. The future of the position should be built around him, but maybe not next season.
BORROWING
Gianluigi Donnarumma
He is still one of the best players in world football, and having signed last season, it is hard to see the club not keeping him.
SAVE
Marcus Bettinelli
He has the third-choice goalkeeper who has experience and understands his role in the team. It is a gem around the dressing room and home.
SAVE
The protectors
Ruben Dias
He is still City’s leader in defense despite playing a small role this season. He looks set to retain his place under Enzo Maresca.
SAVE
Josko Guardiol
Developed into one of City’s most complete defenders. Comfortable at center or left back and remains one of the key building blocks for the next season.
SAVE
Marc Guehi
A smart addition that fits the modern profile of the City. Aggressive defender, strong on the ball and entering his prime. He could be a great person under the next manager.
SAVE
Rico Lewis
One of the school’s brightest products and exactly the type of smart, versatile player City build around. However, don’t be surprised to see the youngster go out on loan.
BORROWING
Nathan Ake
He is reliable when fit, but injuries continue to hamper his momentum. Aged 31 this summer, City may decide this is the right time to renew the position if a firm offer arrives.
Sell it
John Stones
A popular figure of Guardiola’s era, but injuries have become more common. His skill level is still there, but he will leave the team as a free agent.
Sell it
Rayan Ait-Nouri
Adds power and attacking quality down the left. It gives the city a different dimension and should be more developed in this process.
SAVE
Abdukodir Khusanov
It’s still green, but the sports profile is outstanding. It takes time and patience, it has obvious potential.
SAVE
Max Alleyne
Has a high rating inside but we probably won’t get the same minutes next season. A Championship loan will accelerate his development.
BORROWING
Manuel Akanji
A solid worker for City, but a loan move suggests he may no longer be central to long-term plans. It depends on the tactical choices of the new manager.
Sell it
Vitor Reis
Great power, but regular football is important at his age. Some loan money will benefit the player and the club.
BORROWING
Joshua Wilson-Esbrand
He has struggled to establish himself in City’s senior team and now needs permanent stability elsewhere.
Sell it
Midfielders
Rodri
Still the heartbeat of this group. The whole structure of City changes in his absence. One of the most important players in world football.
SAVE
Phil Foden
A difficult season by his standards at times, but he remains the face of City’s future alongside Haaland. The next manager must build around him.
SAVE
Tijjani Reijnders
He brought composure, intelligence and control to the pitch. It seems to suit City’s game well and should improve.
SAVE
Ryan Cherki
One of the most naturally gifted players in the team. It can unlock games that few others can. Consistency remains the next challenge without Guardiola.
SAVE
Bernardo Silva
He is an all-time great of the Guardiola era, but this feels like a natural ending. Like the Stones, he will be leaving this summer.
Sell it
Jeremy Doku
It has destroyed the changes and is one of the most dangerous attackers of the group. Needs a final product but remains a great weapon.
SAVE
Savinho
Rarely seen last season and attracting the attention of the market, City would be better off if they got the cash.
Sell it
Nico Gonzalez
A useful squad option that offers tactical flexibility and midfield power. Not spectacular, but reliable.
SAVE
Mateo Kovacic
A reliable depth option, although age and physical decline are starting to show. He could stay for another year, but City should already be planning to move on.
Sell it
Matheus Nunes
Never fully assured in midfield and continues to look stuck between roles. The talent is there, but City may decide to downgrade.
Sell it
Nico O’Reilly
One of the most exciting academy prospects at the club. It is possible that this left back area will be closed for years to come.
SAVE
Sverre Nypan
Highly rated and technically gifted. The way into City’s midfield is tough, so a loan spell seems inevitable.
BORROWING
Claudio Echeverri
Great talent, but still developing physically. Needs top football before becoming a realistic option in Manchester.
BORROWING
Calvin Phillips
The move was unsuccessful. Injuries, loss of confidence and not fitting in with the system made it the right decision for everyone.
Sell it
Jack Grealish
The loan could spell the end of his City career. Injuries and inconsistency have limited his influence significantly over the past two seasons.
Sell it
Forward
Erling Haaland
He is the backbone of City’s attack and remains a feared striker in Europe. All that is offensive must continue to revolve around him.
SAVE
Omar Marmoush
Adapted quickly and gives City more movement and confidence in attack. An excellent rotating option who can play alongside Haaland.
SAVE
Antoine Semenyo
A strong, direct player who adds strength to the front line. He seems well suited for his role in Manchester.
SAVE
