With the 2026/27 campaign on the horizon, Manchester City look markedly transformed compared to the team that dominated the opening years of the decade. The departures of legends like Kevin De Bruyne and Ederson last summer signalled a clear transition into a fresh chapter at the Etihad Stadium.
What initially looked like a rebuilding effort during 2025/26 has since developed into something far more intriguing, with City now edging toward a remarkable domestic treble. However, the overhaul remains ongoing. The departures of influential players like John Stones and Bernardo Silva are set to create notable voids, with attention now turning firmly toward recruitment. Decisions over arrivals, departures and the structure of this next version of City will determine whether they can build another dominant cycle - under Pep Guardiola or possibly a successor.
With that in mind, Mirror Football has examined what a 'dream' Manchester City squad might resemble going into the upcoming season.
Goalkeepers
In the goalkeeping department, City are in a strong position. Gianluigi Donnarumma has been outstanding, with his commanding presence and crucial interventions in big matches playing a key role in tilting the title race in City's favour. Behind him, James Trafford has impressed whenever called upon, especially in recent months. Retaining him could prove difficult, though. With aspirations for consistent first-team action - both domestically and internationally - Trafford is unlikely to accept a long-term backup role. Still, City would prefer to keep him for another year, maintaining depth before potentially approving a high-value transfer. Further down the hierarchy, Marcus Bettinelli serves as the third-choice goalkeeper. The ex-Chelsea shot-stopper has yet to make an appearance since joining last summer but provides experienced backup if needed.
Defenders
Despite the impending departure of John Stones, City remain well-stocked at centre back. Marc Guehi has adapted seamlessly to life at the Etihad since arriving from Crystal Palace in January, forming a strong partnership with Abdukodir Khusanov. Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are also expected to return following lengthy injury absences this season, adding further quality alongside Nathan Ake. At left back, the situation is equally assured. Nico O'Reilly has emerged as a standout performer since breaking into the senior side, while Rayan Ait-Nouri offers an energetic and reliable alternative. Right back, however, is still an area needing reinforcement. Matheus Nunes has performed admirably when filling in, but the Portugal international is a midfielder by trade and not a long-term solution in that position. Consequently, Newcastle's Tino Livramento has emerged as a prime target.
The England international has been tracked by City for some time and after another impressive campaign at St James' Park, securing his signature would likely require a fee of around £70 million. Even so, City may consider that investment worthwhile to secure a player of Livramento's quality and finally resolve a position lacking a natural long-term solution.
Midfielders
Midfield is where the biggest transformation could occur. City still need to replicate the creative influence of De Bruyne - and investing a club-record £110m in Jamal Musiala would achieve that while also sending a strong signal to competitors. The Bayern Munich star represents the ultimate 'dream' acquisition, bringing elite creativity, vision and goal-scoring threat. Alongside him, Elliot Anderson is another dream signing. Nottingham Forest reportedly value the versatile 23-year-old at over £100m but his energy, ball progression and tactical adaptability could justify the cost from City's perspective.
At the base of midfield, Rodri remains the unquestioned anchor, controlling tempo and offering defensive stability. He is supported by a solid group including Tijjani Reijnders, Nico Gonzalez and Mateo Kovacic, providing both depth and versatility in central positions. Further forward, competition for creative roles is already intense. Rayan Cherki and Phil Foden have battled for the No. 10 position throughout the season. The addition of Musiala would only heighten that competition and might even push Foden further down the pecking order, particularly after occasionally playing behind Cherki this term. Nevertheless, City are unlikely to part ways with Foden easily. Given Guardiola's focus on rotation and tactical flexibility, there is still a clear opportunity for him to regain form and reaffirm his importance within the squad.
Forwards
In attack, City will continue to build around their prolific Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, who is expected to lead the line for years ahead. However, the supporting cast around him is evolving. The January signing of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth has already introduced a more direct and physically dominant dimension to City's frontline - something that has often been missing under Guardiola. Meanwhile, Jeremy Doku provides explosive speed and unpredictability in one-on-one situations, stretching defences and creating opportunities for team-mates. The potential arrival of Musiala would further enhance this attacking group, adding both quality and depth in wide areas.
Elsewhere, Savinho and Omar Marmoush contribute additional options and stylistic variation. Savinho offers flair and technical precision on the wings, while Marmoush brings versatility, capable of playing centrally or drifting wide to connect play.
Here is the full squad: Donnarumma, Trafford, Bettinelli; Livramento, Guehi, Dias, Khusanov, Gvardiol, Ake, O'Reilly, Ait-Nouri, Lewis; Rodri, Anderson, Kovacic, Reijnders, Gonzalez, Nunes, Cherki, Musiala; Semenyo, Doku, Savinho, Marmoush, Haaland.
