Manchester, UK – July 15, 2025 — In a bold move to reshape his squad ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 Premier League season, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly prepared to approve the departure of at least six players, including several key first-team stars.
According to The Athletic, the shake-up comes as Guardiola aims to streamline the squad, following a somewhat underwhelming 2024/25 campaign where City fell behind rivals Liverpool and Arsenal in the title race. Despite having one of the deepest and most technically gifted squads in Europe, the City boss appears set on refreshing the team dynamic and reducing the squad size to focus on a tighter, more cohesive group.
Among those listed for potential exits is John Stones, the 31-year-old England international defender who has been a pivotal part of City’s defense over the past seven seasons. Known for his ability to step into midfield in Guardiola’s innovative systems, Stones’ form has fluctuated in recent months, prompting speculation about his long-term role under the Catalan tactician.
Sources close to the club suggest that Stones, who still has two years left on his contract, is available for transfer, with several Premier League clubs and European sides reportedly monitoring the situation. While no formal bids have been confirmed, insiders believe a fee in the region of £25–30 million could be enough to tempt City to sell.
Perhaps more surprisingly, Ilkay Gundogan — who only returned to the Etihad Stadium last summer after a one-season stint at Barcelona — is also on the list of potential departures. Gundogan, 34, remains one of Guardiola’s most trusted lieutenants, but the club may be ready to part ways due to his age and the desire to inject more youth into midfield.
The German international was instrumental in City’s historic treble-winning campaign in 2023 and played a mentoring role upon his return. However, Guardiola is believed to be prioritizing the development of younger talents like Phil Foden, Matheus Nunes, and Rico Lewis in midfield.
Also linked with a possible exit is Mateo Kovacic, the Croatian midfielder signed from Chelsea in 2023. Kovacic has struggled to cement a regular starting place amid fierce competition in midfield and is now being touted as a potential departee to help balance the squad.
Reports indicate that City are open to letting Kovacic leave if a suitable offer comes in, with clubs in Italy and Turkey said to be exploring options. Guardiola has reportedly grown frustrated with Kovacic’s inconsistent performances and his inability to fully adapt to City’s high-possession style.
In addition to these experienced players, three young prospects — Nico O’Reilly, Claudio Echeverri, and Oscar Bobb — could also be on their way out, either permanently or on loan. The trio, though highly rated within the club’s academy and development ranks, may find first-team opportunities limited this season given the intense competition for places.
Nico O’Reilly, a product of City’s youth setup, has impressed in Premier League 2 and EFL Cup appearances, but Guardiola is believed to prefer loaning him out to a top-flight side to gain valuable first-team experience. Oscar Bobb, the talented Norwegian winger, enjoyed a few cameos last season but may seek a more consistent role elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Claudio Echeverri, the Argentine starlet dubbed the “next Messi” by some South American pundits, only arrived at the club earlier this year. Despite his promise, City are considering a temporary move for him to develop his game, with clubs in Spain and Portugal showing interest.
This potential mass exodus is part of Guardiola’s broader restructuring strategy, aimed at refreshing the team and ensuring a competitive edge heading into what could be his final season at the helm. With his current contract expiring in 2026, there has been growing speculation about his long-term future at the club. Guardiola has yet to clarify whether he intends to renew or step away at the end of his current deal.
Speaking at the close of last season, the City manager hinted at a summer of change, saying, “Sometimes, to move forward, you have to let go of even the most trusted soldiers. This club always evolves, and we must stay ahead.”
Manchester City have already made significant moves in the transfer market, with new signings including Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí from Barcelona and Belgian winger Antonio Nusa from Club Brugge. The club is also in advanced talks to sign João Neves from Benfica, a dynamic young midfielder expected to take on a major role in Guardiola’s revamped side.
The City board is fully backing Guardiola’s vision, recognizing that sustained success often demands difficult decisions — including parting ways with long-serving stars.
If these six exits are completed, it will mark one of the most significant overhauls in recent Manchester City history, underscoring Pep’s relentless drive for excellence and reinvention.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the reports. While many trust Guardiola’s judgment given his track record, others are sad to see loyal figures like Stones and Gundogan potentially leaving. “It’s the end of an era,” one supporter posted on X. “But we trust the boss. Pep knows what he’s doing.”
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on the Etihad Campus to see how these high-profile departures and incoming signings shape what could be Guardiola’s last great City project.
Africa Live News will continue to monitor and report updates as the transfer dealings unfold in the coming weeks.
