Embattled Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has mentioned that plans are underway to bring in new players during the January transfer window. The Spanish manager disclosed that his players have requested additional signings to assist them in January.
Manchester City has been plagued by injuries this season and appears unlikely to successfully defend the Premier League title they have secured four times in a row. The Cityzens suffered a setback when Oscar Bobb sustained a broken leg in the summer, followed by an ACL injury to 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. Various other injuries have occurred throughout the season, leaving Guardiola’s team thin.
Prior to facing Everton in an early Boxing Day kickoff clash, Pep Guardiola revealed to Prime Video Sport that arrangements are being made to acquire new players. He also mentioned that the squad members themselves have requested new additions in the January transfer window.
“If we can, we have to add players in January… definitely! We struggled especially at the back, in the middle. I think even the players asked ourselves… we are going to add some players?! Please!”
Manchester City’s activity in the summer transfer window was limited, only securing the services of Ilkay Gundogan and Savinho. This was despite the departures of Julian Alvarez, Sergio Gomez, Joao Cancelo, and several other young talents.
Pep Guardiola’s side has lacked the depth that was a key factor in their dominance in the Premier League this season, leading to a poor run of form. The Cityzens have managed just one win in their last 12 games across all competitions, suffering nine losses in that period.
Pep Guardiola faces Everton without key players
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola finds himself with a depleted squad once again as they prepare to play Everton in the Premier League. The Cityzens will be without five senior players for the Boxing Day match at the Etihad Stadium, with several young players on the bench.
Goalkeeper Ederson, defenders John Stones and Kyle Walker, and midfielders Jack Grealish and Matheus Nunes are noticeably absent from the matchday squad. This group joins the likes of Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Oscar Bobb, who were already ruled out due to injury.
17-year-old academy goalkeeper Spike Brits is one of the two goalkeepers on the bench alongside Scott Carson. Players like Divin Mubama, Max Alleyne, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, and Nico O’Reilly are also among the substitutes. Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, and James McAtee are part of the champions’ bench.
Edited by Sai Krishna
