The Manchester City squad only needs minor tweaks, not a rebuild | OneFootball

One of the stories to look out for this summer is what Manchester City will do in terms of improving their squad this summer. Heading into the transfer window it did appear that a host of City’s key players could depart this summer. But a new report suggests that may not be the case and the champions may only make a few minor tweaks to their squad for the 24/25 season.

Sam Lee reports for the Athletic that Manchester City may have a quiet summer in the transfer window. Lee further reports that while the champions have money to spend this summer they consider their squad to be strong as currently constructed. Furthermore, Lee also reports that a rebuild of the City squad isn’t likely unless key players depart this summer.

City can find improvement from within without massive spending this summer.

Lee’s report that indicates Manchester City think their squad is strong enough does hold up under closer inspection. While Pep Guardiola’s side claimed a fourth consecutive Premier League title last season they did so after suffering several injuries to key players last campaign. Players such as Kevin De Bruyne, John Stones and Erling Haaland all missed significant portions of last season due to various injury issues. If players such as De Bruyne, Haaland and Stones can avoid significant injuries next season then the champions should be better placed in terms of squad depth during the 24/25 season.

Another factor that could see the champions improve again next season is if key players return to form or develop. Jack Grealish was well below his best during the 23/24 season. A combination of form, niggling injuries and a traumatic break in his family home saw the England international have a subdued campaign last season. If Grealish can return to his best it will help Manchester City’s fight to remain at the top of English football next season. If a player such as Oscar Bobb or Rico Lewis can continue their development and become bigger contributors to Pep Guardiola’s squad next season then the champions will be well-placed to attempt to challenge on multiple fronts next season.

There is no doubt that Manchester City will make signings this summer. It isn’t in the world champions nature to stand still. But as Sam Lee reports a full rebuild of the City squad doesn’t appear on the horizon given Lee’s report indicates that Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne and Ederson appear likely to remain at the club for the 24/25 season.