The current season for Manchester City has been one of the most challenging ones for the club in recent years. For a team accustomed to being near the top of the Premier League and dominating both domestically and internationally, the lack of consistent performance this season has been a stark contrast to the expectations surrounding them. Their struggles in the Premier League, alongside disappointing exits in the Carabao Cup and underwhelming performances in European competitions, have left many wondering what the future holds for Pep Guardiola’s team.
The team’s failure to live up to its usual high standards has become more apparent with each passing match, and as the season progresses, it seems increasingly likely that a major shakeup of the squad will occur in the summer. Several key players who have been part of the first team for a while are now expected to seek moves away from Manchester City, and the club may have to look for fresh talent to reinvigorate the squad.
One of the players whose future has been the subject of speculation is Mateo Kovacic. The Croatian international, who arrived at Manchester City in the past season, has struggled to make a significant impact. Despite playing over 2,100 minutes this season in a variety of midfield roles, his performances have not been as influential as either he or the club would have hoped. With the team’s underperformance in various competitions and the fact that Kovacic has yet to make the expected impact, it’s becoming increasingly clear that his time at Manchester City might be coming to an end sooner rather than later.
Atletico Madrid, led by manager Diego Simeone, are reportedly interested in securing Kovacic’s services for a fee of around €30 million. While this price tag may seem steep, it is one that Atletico Madrid could potentially meet, given their desire to strengthen their midfield options. Kovacic’s experience and ability to play in different midfield roles are seen as valuable assets, and a move to La Liga could provide him with a fresh start. There are also reports suggesting that Jose Mourinho, who has long been an admirer of Kovacic, could look to bring him to Fenerbahce. However, it is believed that Kovacic would prefer a return to Spain, where he has spent significant time playing for Real Madrid before making the move to the Premier League.
Kovacic’s desire to remain in one of the top five European leagues could be a key factor in his decision-making process, and a move to Atletico Madrid seems to be his preferred option. Having played for Real Madrid previously, a move back to Spain would allow him to reconnect with the league he knows best. Moreover, Madrid is a city that Kovacic is familiar with, and the potential to compete for titles in La Liga and the Champions League would certainly appeal to him.
The decision to part ways with Kovacic may be a difficult one for Manchester City, especially considering the amount of time and money invested in him. However, it may also be the right time for the club to cut their losses and move in a different direction. Kovacic’s market value, according to Transfermarkt, is currently at €28 million, and with two years remaining on his contract, Manchester City could look to cash in on the midfielder before his value declines further. The return of Rodri, who has been a crucial figure for City in recent seasons, could also make Kovacic’s departure more likely. With Rodri back in the fold, Guardiola has a wealth of midfield options, and Kovacic’s role within the squad has become less certain.
In addition to Kovacic’s potential departure, there are other concerns surrounding Manchester City’s midfield. Kevin De Bruyne, once regarded as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and a key player for the team, has found himself in a somewhat unfamiliar position this season. The Belgian playmaker, who has been central to City’s success in recent years, appears to have fallen from his perch at the top of the pecking order. While De Bruyne is still a talented player, his form has been inconsistent, and Guardiola may be starting to look for younger alternatives to carry the team forward in the coming seasons.
Similarly, players like Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan, who have been vital cogs in City’s success under Guardiola, are showing signs of age and decline. While both players remain incredibly talented, they are no longer performing at the peak levels they once did. This, combined with the emergence of younger talents like Nico Gonzalez, could signal the end of their time at the club.
Nico Gonzalez, who joined Manchester City recently, has impressed in his early outings for the club. Guardiola has spoken highly of the midfielder, describing him as a “mini-Rodri” due to his ability to control the game in a similar manner to Rodri. The arrival of Gonzalez, along with the return of Rodri, has created a situation where some of the older midfielders may be pushed out in favor of younger, more dynamic players. Gonzalez has quickly become a key figure in City’s midfield, and his future looks bright at the club.
With these changes in mind, it’s clear that Manchester City is going through a period of transition. The club has enjoyed tremendous success under Guardiola, winning numerous titles and establishing themselves as one of the dominant forces in European football. However, the current season’s struggles suggest that the squad needs to be refreshed in order to maintain its competitive edge.
The prospect of a major squad overhaul in the summer could be a pivotal moment for the club. Guardiola has shown in the past that he is willing to make bold decisions in order to improve the team, and this summer may be no different. The likes of Kovacic, De Bruyne, Silva, and Gundogan could all find themselves looking for new clubs, with Manchester City seeking to bring in younger, more vibrant players to replace them. This would allow the club to build a team that is capable of challenging for titles in the future, both domestically and internationally.
As for the future of Mateo Kovacic, his departure from Manchester City seems increasingly likely. Whether he joins Atletico Madrid or moves elsewhere, it’s clear that the Croatian midfielder’s time at the Etihad has not gone as planned. For both Kovacic and Manchester City, it may be best to part ways in order to allow both parties to pursue new opportunities. Kovacic, who turns 31 in May, still has plenty of playing years left in him, and a move to a new club could provide him with the fresh start he needs to reignite his career.
Meanwhile, Manchester City will continue to monitor their squad and make the necessary changes to ensure they remain competitive. The challenges faced by the team this season have highlighted the need for a refresh, and it seems that Guardiola is prepared to make the tough decisions required to rebuild the team for the future. With the likes of De Bruyne, Silva, and Gundogan no longer performing at their best, and new signings like Gonzalez making an impact, it’s clear that the club is ready to embrace change.
In the coming months, we are likely to see significant changes in the makeup of the Manchester City squad. The summer transfer window will be a key moment in the club’s quest to maintain their dominance in English and European football. Whether Kovacic stays or goes, and whether other key players follow him out the door, the future of Manchester City will be shaped by the decisions made in the coming months. The club’s ambition to remain at the top will drive their efforts to bring in new talent and ensure that they continue to compete for the biggest trophies in world football.
