Manchester City have already won silverware this season and have the opportunity to secure two more trophies before the campaign ends later this month.
The treble-winners slipped up in the Premier League title race last night when they snatched a 3-3 draw with Everton in the dying seconds of their clash, but still have a strong chance of securing their eighth FA Cup in a couple of weeks.
They will need Arsenal to drop points in one of their final three fixtures to give themselves another chance of completing the domestic treble, should they beat Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
Looking ahead to the rapidly approaching summer transfer window, there is plenty of work to be done to return to the devastatingly competitive levels seen under Pep Guardiola in previous years.
The Champions League has been a consistent struggle since lifting the trophy back in 2023, and the primary focus will be on adding another to their collection while competing convincingly on all fronts.
A new chapter is unfolding on the blue side of Manchester.
Club captain Bernardo Silva and stalwart John Stones have already confirmed their exits, and fresh reports claim another treble-winning figure could depart too.
According to Football Insider, Manchester City are preparing for midfielder Rodri to leave the club this summer as part of a major midfield overhaul.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, Pete O’Rourke said:
“There’s going to be a big revamp of Pep Guardiola’s midfield when the summer transfer window opens.
“Bernardo Silva is leaving and he will leave a big gap in the middle of the park for Man City.
“There’s ongoing doubt about Rodri’s long-term future there as well and whether he could make a move to Real Madrid this summer.
“So if they lose both of those experienced players, there’s no doubt they will have to be replaced, and it could also create opportunities for some of their fringe players.”
Should Man City move on Rodri?
Huge changes are expected across the squad at City this summer, but the departure of so many leaders and winning mentalities could prove destabilising.
Silva, Stones and Rodri have all been instrumental in the success the club has achieved over the last decade, setting the standards for new additions to follow and replicate in their performances.
Losing the entire trio could represent a significant risk for Guardiola as he attempts to rebuild and establish another team capable of consistently winning major honours for years to come.
Rodri, once hailed as a “true legend” by Joleon Lescott, is only 29 years old and still has plenty to offer if he can remain fit. With Real Madrid reportedly keen to secure his services, allowing him to leave could strengthen a major European rival.
The Ballon d’Or winner is a unique asset that many clubs would covet, but his future will likely depend on his own commitment and desire to continue with City into this next phase.
With that in mind, retaining Rodri would appear the logical move for City, particularly to avoid strengthening their competitors, though it remains to be seen whether he will seek a new challenge alongside his departing teammates this summer.
About the Author
