Ahead of the 2025/2026 season, Pep Guardiola will be hoping that Manchester City move some players on to reduce the size of the bloated squad at his disposal.
Guardiola quipped he would leave Manchester City if their roster was not trimmed down while stressing that he does not like leaving excessive players out of his matchday squads.
However, none of Manchester City’s players wish to leave and follow in the footsteps of Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker.
With that being the case, Pep Guardiola’s patience is likely to be tested until the end of the summer transfer window.
Nico O’Reilly could leave Man City this summer
There is a possibility that Stefan Ortega departs the Etihad Stadium, with Manchester City News exclusively confirming this month that his camp were assessing the German’s options.
We also revealed that Ilkay Gundogan’s dream club is Galatasaray but only time will tell whether he signs for the Turkish side.
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The Athletic have reported that with Manchester City’s squad size still not being as per Pep Guardiola’s demand, several players could either leave permanently or on loan, with Nico O’Reilly being one of the names.
Manchester City player Nico O'Reilly and manager Pep Guardiola
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Considering Guardiola rates O’Reilly highly, the fact that the Englishman could be set for an exit despite playing a key role as an emergency left-back last season comes as a surprise.
Shaun Wright-Phillips described O’Reilly’s displays as “phenomenal” and a strong case can be made that he was City’s best player during the back end of the 2024/2025 campaign.
Jeremy Doku may have unintentionally revealed why Nico O’Reilly is in trouble at Man City
After City’s 5-2 win against Juventus, Jeremy Doku lauded Rayan Ait-Nouri, a player whose arrival could mean the youngster is on the periphery of things next season.
“He’s so fast, so quick.”
“He can play on the inside, outside. It’s a joy to play with him, he speaks French as well. So, honestly, the connection is there, and I’m happy that he’s here with us.”
With Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders signing for Manchester City this summer, O’Reilly may be advised to head out on loan as in midfield and in defence, he could barely get a look-in during the 2025/2026 campaign.
However, the 20-year-old will be hoping to compete for a starting berth and earn his spot, much like he did during his breakthrough season.