Pep Guardiola has made a strong set up in his Manchester City squad since he arrived at the club in 2016. After a poor first season, he won back to back Premier League titles in the seasons 2017-18 and 2018-19. This term City has won the Capital One Cup and is still in the FA Cup and the Champions League. The League form has not been great and City would want to come back stronger next season with a few changes in the squad. Guardiola who donated €1m in Spain for the recent Coronavirus pandemic suggests everyone stay safe and to stay as per the doctor’s order.
In a statement to City fans, Pep said: “We miss football,” he said. “We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses.”
“You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We will come back from this stronger, better, kinder … and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe.”
So Let’s look at some of the key players who can stay or leave at the end of this campaign.
Midfield And Attack-
Sergio Aguero: The Manchester City legend had a stellar career in England. Since joining City in 2011, he has made a numeral number of records and has been the highest goal scorer for the club. The 31-year-old’s current contract is running out next summer and he will stay for at least another year at Manchester.
David Silva: Another City great, Silva will be leaving Manchester City after this season. The City legend joined the club just a season before Aguero did and has been a loyal servant of the club.
Nicolas Otamendi: A great rock of the City defence for some years, Otamendi is a key member of Guardiola’s side. The defensive partnership with Company has been one of the best in recent years and he will be going nowhere and his contract runs till 2022.
Leroy Sane: The German youngster can leave Manchester City at the end of this season after falling out-of-favour with Guardiola. He currently plays for Bayern Munich on loan, though a host of other clubs could be interested in his services.
Defensive Updates-
Angelino: The left wing-back is currently on loan at German club RB Leipzig. He has been in superb form and is expected to stay there on a permanent basis from next season.
John Stones: Once a promising young English centre-back, Stones had raised high hopes after a successful career at Everton. In the first days in Manchester City, he was decent playing alongside Vincent Company but in recent times he has been exposed time and time again when Laporte or Company was not in the backline and is expected to leave.
Joao Cancelo: It was a big-money move for the full-back. Joao Cancelo was signed for £60m but failed to make his spot permanent in the first XI. Due to this, the manager doesn’t trust him and he might leave this summer.