Manchester City's summer of change promises to be a fascinating one, with incoming manager Enzo Maresca facing a host of squad decisions. The departure of Pep Guardiola and club icons Bernardo Silva and John Stones leaves a void that Maresca must fill, and the future of several players hangs in the balance. Here's a look at nine players whose futures are uncertain, and why they matter.
James Trafford
The young goalkeeper has shown promise this season, but his future is uncertain. Trafford will not want to be a backup again, and while Maresca might bump him above Gianluigi Donnarumma, it's a long shot. With suitors aplenty, Trafford's decision could shape the goalkeeping dynamic at City.
Rico Lewis
A talented young player, Lewis has been a fall-guy under Guardiola, rarely making match-day squads. His future at City is uncertain, and with regular football a priority, he may seek a move to a club like Nottingham Forest, who have previously shown interest.
Nathan Ake
Ake, in the final year of his contract, has been a steady presence when called upon. His age and proven ability make him a potential target for other clubs. City may look to recoup some value for the 32-year-old, but his future remains uncertain.
Rayan Ait-Nouri
Ait-Nouri, only a year into his City career, faced competition from Nico O'Reilly for the left-back role. Injury issues and the Africa Cup of Nations disrupted his progress, and he must now prove himself under Maresca's watch.
Mateo Kovacic
Kovacic, into the final year of his deal, has struggled with injuries this season. His age and lack of long-term viability make him a potential sale, and City may look to recoup a fee for the 32-year-old.
Nico Gonzalez
Gonzalez's form mid-season was promising, but he then disappeared from the squad. The potential arrival of Elliot Anderson could push him further down the pecking order, and a new manager may not guarantee his future.
Tijjani Reijnders
Reijnders, a versatile midfielder, struggled for consistency this season. His lack of a fixed position and the potential for a new manager to bring change make him a candidate for a summer sale.
Savinho
Savinho, a Brazilian player, has been linked with Tottenham. His lack of impact and the potential for City to recoup the fee paid for him make him a player who could be moved on.
Omar Marmoush
Marmoush, an Egypt international, struggled to replicate his early impact at City. Filling Erling Haaland's understudy role is challenging, and his future is uncertain.
As Maresca takes the reins, these players' futures hang in the balance. The summer of change promises to be a fascinating one, with the potential for new beginnings and the end of others.
