Summer exodus at Man City? Who could be on their way out following Guardiola’s latest comments | OneFootball

Following their worst season since Pep Guardiola’s arrival, a summer overhaul of Manchester City’s squad is expected.

The Blues have enjoyed unprecedented success during the Catalan’s time in charge. However, a refresh now seems necessary if they are to challenge for league titles once again.

City are no strangers to saying goodbye to legends in recent years. During Guardiola’s tenure numerous icons have left the club, including Yaya Toure, Vincent Kompany, David Silva and Sergio Aguero.

Now a new wave of stars are set to exit the Etihad Stadium. Kevin De Bruyne’s departure from City has already been announced. He follows club captain Kyle Walker, who joined AC Milan on loan in January.

Guardiola’s comments have made it clear that he feels change is needed in his squad. The coach recently explained: “The most important thing from my point of view is, what I said to the club, ‘which players are reliable for the future?’

“You cannot perform if you are not reliable, if you are injured.”

John Stones was one of the first players that Guardiola brought to the Etihad Stadium. The defender has flourished during his nine years with the club. When he is on the pitch, he is a unique talent. However, the problem is keeping him on the pitch. It can also be difficult to find bonus offers with no commitment.

Stones’ injury troubles are well-documented. Last season the England international made just 12 league starts. This season he has managed just six. The centre-back simply does not play enough football. With his contract expiring in July 2026, the club may look to cash in on the 30-year-old this summer.

Nathan Ake is another defender that has struggled with injury this season. He has made just eight Premier League starts and has completed a full 90 minutes just twice. Guardiola conceded: “Nathan (Ake), like John Stones, has been injured all the season.”

The Dutch international has spent the last five years at the Etihad. However he has been sidelined by four separate injuries this season which will be a cause for concern among decision-makers at the club. The 30-year-old still has two years remaining on his deal but could explore a move elsewhere this summer.

Jack Grealish is another key member of City’s treble-winning side that could be heading for the exit. The attacker has struggled for form and fitness across the past two seasons and has made just seven league starts this campaign. Competition for places is high in City’s team and Guardiola admitted: “Now Savinho is in better shape and everything than Jack (Grealish). And that is why I play Savinho.”

Next season, Grealish could switch clubs to secure more guaranteed minutes ahead of the World Cup. Recently, the attacker was not included in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad. The German coach said: “He simply has no rhythm, and he knows that himself. I think Jack gets better and better the more minutes he plays.”

Bernardo Silva has been one of Guardiola’s favourite players since he moved to Manchester in 2017. The midfielder has played in most matches since his arrival at the club but the 30-year-old’s performances have been sub-par this season.

The Portuguese international has already been close to leaving City on a number of occasions. With his contract set to expire in 2026, a summer exit seems possible. Barcelona have been longtime admirers of the midfielder and have made repeated attempts to sign him in the past. Despite this, Silva is being strongly linked with a return to Benfica in his native country.