In a significant development at the Etihad, it seems that Pep Guardiola is prepared to make a bold move as he seeks to rejuvenate his Manchester City squad. Reports emerging from Spain suggest that the Catalan manager is ‘tired’ of waiting for one of his key players, Phil Foden, to consistently shine and is contemplating a high-profile swap involving a Real Madrid ‘gem’.
The Citizens, who enjoyed a period of Premier League domination, have seen their fortunes wane over the last 18 months. Last season saw City bow out of the title race before Christmas and suffer a bitter defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final. The need for a strategic rebuild focusing on reducing the average age of the squad has become unavoidable.
Despite heavy investment in the transfer market, City find themselves trailing behind title favourites Arsenal this season. Star striker Erling Haaland has been pivotal, arguably performing as the league’s standout player, while Foden has experienced a mixed journey. After securing the prestigious PFA Player of the Year award in 2023/24, his form plummeted but is now showing signs of resurgence.
Nevertheless, it’s speculated that Guardiola has grown impatient waiting for Foden to fulfil his ultimate potential. The whispers circulating the City dressing room suggest that the manager is considering placing the England international on the transfer list to pave the way for Real Madrid’s talented youngster, Arda Güler.
However, prising Güler away from the Bernabéu will not be straightforward. The Turkish sensation, highly rated and under contract until 2029, carries a formidable €1 billion buyout clause. Real Madrid have made it clear that Güler, likened to a fusion of Özil and Guti by his admirers, is a crucial component of their future plans under Alonso and is deemed ‘untouchable’.
Nonetheless, Guardiola is reported to have urged the City hierarchy to launch an ambitious pursuit of Güler, recognising the urgent need for generational change at the club. Meanwhile, the pressure mounts on Foden amidst this swirling speculation.
Stay tuned for further developments on this intriguing storyline as City’s pursuit of youthful vibrancy keeps intensifying.