By Noah Curitti
Manchester City have been a juggernaut in the Premier League for the last seven seasons but have hit rock bottom so far this season.
City has just one win in twelve games, with nine of the twelve games being losses. They look like a completely different team this season and this stretch of bad performances is putting them out of reach of securing their fifth-straight league title.
The reasons for the Blues’ struggles can be various, whether it’s Rodri’s season-ending injury, Pep Guardiola’s tactics being figured out by other teams, poor defensive performances or veterans not pulling their weight. No matter the cause, in order for City to get back to where they once were, they need to rebuild the squad.
Here are five players that Manchester City should be looking to sign in the winter or summer transfer window.
Jeremie Frimpong - Right Back, Bayer Leverkusen
Kyle Walker, the current captain of Manchester City, has enjoyed a distinguished career with the club and is widely regarded as a City icon. However, this season, his performances have raised concerns. At 34 years old, Walker's age has become more apparent, and his once formidable pace—which allowed him to neutralize some of the best wingers in the world—appears to have diminished, leaving him increasingly vulnerable defensively.
In light of these struggles, the Blues would benefit from adding Jeremie Frimpong, a former City academy player now excelling at Bayer Leverkusen. The 24-year-old Dutch defender offers a more youthful and dynamic presence, mirroring the pace and athleticism that once defined Walker's game. Furthermore, Frimpong's attacking contributions would add additional flair into City’s forward play, addressing some of the team’s struggles in the final third this season.
Martin Zubimendi - Midfielder, Real Sociedad
İlkay Gündoğan was crucial to Manchester City's Treble-winning 2022-23 season but his return this year from Spanish giants FC Barcelona has been underwhelming. With 2024 Ballon D’or winner Rodri sidelined for the season, City needs a player who can provide the same defensive stability and balance in midfield.
Martín Zubimendi, Rodri’s Spanish teammate, is an ideal candidate. The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder offers qualities similar to Rodri's and would bring much-needed support to City’s midfield struggles. While his £50 million release clause is the only way they can sign him, Zubimendi could be a strong option, backing up Rodri once he returns to fitness.
Bruno Guimarães - Midfielder, Newcastle United
Manchester City’s £45 million investment in Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United from the 2022/23 season has not paid off, with the midfielder failing to adapt to Pep Guardiola’s style of play. Currently on loan at newly promoted Ipswich Town, Phillips has struggled to meet expectations.
Given Phillips’ lack of impact, City should look to move on permanently in the summer to free up space in the midfield. The ideal replacement would be Bruno Guimarães of Newcastle United. The 27-year-old Brazilian offers a unique blend of creativity, ball-winning ability, and excellent work off the ball—qualities Guardiola values highly. Although Guimarães will come at a premium cost, he would be an immediate upgrade in City’s midfield, providing the quality and dynamism the team needs to get back to their winning ways.
Liam Delap - Striker, Ipswich Town
Liam Delap, a former Manchester City academy player, was sold to Ipswich Town for £20 million. He has quickly become one of their standout attackers. With Erling Haaland the only established striker in City’s squad, adding a reliable backup in January should be a priority—Delap could be the ideal solution. The young forward has shown strong goal-scoring and playmaking abilities, and if Ipswich faces relegation, he will likely seek a return to the Premier League. Importantly, City included a buyback clause in his transfer, reportedly set at around £30 million, giving them the first option to re-sign him.
Delap would provide valuable depth in the striker role, offering a perfect balance of youth, potential, and impact as a backup to Haaland.
Jamal Muisala - Midfielder, Bayern Munich
With Kevin De Bruyne aging and nearing the end of his contract, plus Jack Grealish and Phil Foden struggling to hit their peak form, Manchester City should consider bolstering their attack with a dynamic young midfielder. A player who stands out is Bayern Munich's Jamal Musiala.
The German youngster is a gifted player who brings key qualities that would make him perfect for City’s attacking setup. Musiala’s exceptional dribbling, quick turns, and ability to glide past defenders would add a creative spark to the team. His youth, alongside his proven talent and success with Bayern Munich, means he would not only be a valuable asset for the future but could also make an immediate impact, injecting energy and flair into City’s attack this season.
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