Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has sent a clear message to players on the fringes of his squad: leave or face being sidelined. The Catalan tactician is determined to trim his bloated roster ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
No Room for Deadwood
Guardiola, who guided City to an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title last season, isn't mincing words about his plans for squad management. 'Some players have to leave,' he stated bluntly. 'It's not about quality - it's about numbers. We have too many.'
Who's on the Chopping Block?
While Guardiola didn't name specific players, several first-team members could be vulnerable:
- Kalvin Phillips - the England midfielder struggled for game time last season
- João Cancelo - spent last season on loan at Barcelona
- Sergio Gómez - failed to establish himself as a regular starter
Title Defence Preparations
With City aiming to make history by winning five straight Premier League titles, Guardiola is leaving nothing to chance. 'We must be lean, hungry and ready,' he emphasized. The manager's ruthless approach has been key to City's domestic dominance in recent years.
The warning comes as City prepare for their pre-season tour of the United States, where Guardiola will finalise his plans for the 2024/25 campaign.
