Man City Could Gain From United's Transfer Business
Manchester City have been helped by poor Manchester United recruitment decisions for years, but their latest move could hinder Arsenal. According to Simon Bajkowski, Chief Manchester City Writer, United's signing of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35m could complicate Arsenal's plans to improve their midfield.
Historical Recruitment Advantage
Since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013, City have finished above United in the Premier League table every year. While Pep Guardiola deserves much credit, recruitment has been key. Txiki Begiristain built a reputation as one of the best sporting directors, while United messed up their transfer plans repeatedly. City have outspent United, but their spend per trophy is vastly lower due to greater success.
United's New Strategy
Recently, United have hired key City staff, including CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, to improve their transfer efficiency. Last season's recruitment showed promise, and this summer continued. After being beaten by City to Elliot Anderson (£116m), United refused to pay £85m for Mateus Fernandes, instead signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea (£50m) and Youri Tielemans from Villa (£35m). Getting two midfielders for the price of one pleased fans, and Tielemans' signing particularly benefits City.
City's Focus on Arsenal
Hugo Viana and City's recruitment team are more focused on building a better squad than Premier League title winners Arsenal. Having pushed the Gunners all the way last season, Viana needs to ensure City keep their position under new coach Enzo Maresca. Signing Anderson already complicated Arsenal's midfield plans, with Villa valuing Morgan Rogers at over £116m. Losing Tielemans to United strengthens Villa's position regarding Rogers, making it harder for Arsenal to improve.
Impact on Title Race
Michael Carrick helped revive United last season, earning Champions League qualification and beating City and Arsenal. United will look up this year, and City's trip to Old Trafford in September will be an early test for Maresca. However, City's main focus remains Arsenal. If United buying Tielemans makes it harder for Arsenal to improve, City will have reason to thank their neighbours before trying to beat them again.
