Manchester City have had a mixed beginning to the 25/26 season. An impressive win over Wolves was followed up by a disappointing defeat to Tottenham last Saturday. But looking at who Pep Guardiola has selected to play in both games, it seems that a changing of the guard is taking place at Manchester City. As City’s rebuild takes shape, it isn’t surprising to see younger players preferred to experienced players at this stage of the season.
Ilkay Gundogan and Manuel Akanji have yet to feature so far this season.
Tellingly, so far this season, Ilkay Gundogan and Manuel Akanji have yet to feature for Manchester City this season. Both players were unused substitutes during City’s 4-nil win over Wolves. Neither player was in the City squad for their defeat to Tottenham. Perhaps that is an indication that their futures lie away from Manchester City. Sky Sports News has reported that Crystal Palace have approached City about signing Akanji. FCInterNews has relayed a report from TuttoSport, that Ilkay Gundogan is interested in a move to Serie A. Perhaps the fact that both players are yet to feature for Pep Guardiola’s side this season indicates that their days are numbered at the club.
