Midfielders commit and depart
Nico Gonzalez, a midfielder for Manchester City, has confirmed his intention to remain with the club. This decision follows a period where his future was uncertain, especially with the departure of Bernardo Silva and the potential exit of Rodri. Gonzalez stated he is content at the club and believes the club wishes for him to stay. He emphasized the competitive nature within the squad, noting that no player has a guaranteed position for every match and that hard work is essential.
Gonzalez’s commitment aligns with that of Mateo Kovacic, who also declared his intention to stay during the summer tour. Speaking after a 3-1 victory against the K-League All Stars, Gonzalez expressed his happiness to be part of the team, even if it means not playing in every game. He reflected on the previous season, stating he played nearly 30 matches in the starting lineup and had many opportunities.
In contrast, Tijjani Reijnders is anticipated to leave after just one year. The Dutch international, who joined from AC Milan, has attracted interest from Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, and Galatasaray.
Transfer activity and new arrivals
City is progressing in talks to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, with plans to bring him in regardless of any player departures. This move is part of a broader strategy to secure replacements for potential exits, including Reijnders and Rodri. Rodri is reportedly a target for both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Reports indicate that City has reached a long-term agreement with Bouaddi. However, discussions with Lille are ongoing, with a primary sticking point being Bouaddi’s immediate future. Lille is reportedly interested in retaining the player on loan for the remainder of the season as part of any deal, while City prefers him to join Enzo Maresca’s squad immediately.
Bouaddi’s playing style suggests he is not a direct replacement for Rodri. While Rodri is known for winning the ball and controlling games by denying opposition space, Bouaddi focuses on scanning the pitch, receiving the ball on the half-turn, and making passes under pressure. He has operated as one of two central midfielders, emphasizing good positioning and supporting the defense. Scouting reports highlight his ability to complete over 90% of his passes in group games at the World Cup, playing as one of two pivots in a 4-2-3-1 formation. His attacking output is noted as thin, which is considered normal for an 18-year-old.
The club’s transfer policy extends to other positions as well. If Savinho moves to Tottenham, a new player will be signed to fill his spot. The club’s sporting director, Hugo Viana, and Maresca are flexible regarding the type of attacking player to recruit.
With James Trafford nearing a move to Leeds, Marseille’s Geronimo Rulli is being considered as a replacement goalkeeper. Rulli is reportedly keen on the move, and City has sent an official bid to Marseille. He is being lined up to become Gianluigi Donnarumma’s backup, with Marcus Bettinelli remaining as the third-choice keeper.
Plans to sign a right-back have been put on hold. City had sought a backup for Matheus Nunes but considered Malo Gusto too expensive. Abdukodir Khusanov is capable of playing at right-back, and Vitor Reis also featured in that position during a friendly against the K-League All Stars. Reis is expected to stay with the first-team squad this season, with the right-back role potentially offering him playing time.
Having secured Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi in the January transfer window, City is confident in making further signings in August to support Maresca in his first season at the Etihad. Additionally, Jeremy Doku has signed a new contract, extending his stay until at least 2031, following similar agreements with Phil Foden, Josko Gvardiol, and Khusanov. Confirmation of Doku’s new deal is anticipated upon his return from holiday next week.
Contract extensions and future outlook
City has been active in securing the futures of key players. The contract extension for Jeremy Doku, which runs until at least 2031, follows recent agreements with Phil Foden, Josko Gvardiol, and Abdukodir Khusanov. This indicates a focus on retaining talent within the squad for the long term.
The club’s strategy involves both bringing in new talent and ensuring the stability of its existing roster. The confidence in backing Maresca for a successful first season is evident through these transfer and contract activities. The ongoing negotiations for Bouaddi and Rulli, alongside the commitments of Gonzalez and Kovacic, highlight a dynamic period for the club’s squad development.
The club aims to provide Enzo Maresca with the best possible resources for the upcoming season, building on early January signings and anticipated August additions. Confirmation of Doku’s new deal is expected next week.
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
