Manchester City Transfers 2024-25: A Comprehensive Overview
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The 2023-24 season was nothing short of exhilarating for Manchester City. After securing the Premier League title, they experienced some disappointment, falling short in both the FA Cup and the UEFA Champions League. As the 2024-25 season commences, the atmosphere around the Etihad Stadium is charged with excitement and anticipation. With the summer transfer window now closed, Pep Guardiola has made some strategic moves to bolster his squad, aiming to defend their title and pursue more silverware.
In the wake of the transfer window, the focus now shifts to how new arrivals will integrate into Guardiola's tactical framework, and what impact departures might have on the team's dynamics. With a slightly restructured squad, the possibilities seem endless. Let’s explore the completed transfers for Manchester City in the 2024-25 season, focusing on both arrivals and departures.
Arrivals
1. Savinho (Brazil) - From Troyes (£21 million)
The Brazilian winger Savinho joins from Troyes on a five-year deal. After impressing during a loan spell at Girona, where he helped the club qualify for the Champions League, expectations are high. Known for his pace and dribbling skills, Savinho is expected to add depth to City’s attacking options. His ability to stretch defenses will be crucial in Guardiola’s system, and fans are eager to see how he adapts to the physicality of the Premier League.
2. Ilkay Gundogan (Germany) - From FC Barcelona (Free Transfer)
In a surprising twist, Ilkay Gundogan returns to Manchester City after a single season at Barcelona. After being deemed surplus to requirements by Hansi Flick, the midfielder jumped at the chance to rejoin the club where he made a significant impact. Gundogan’s leadership qualities and technical abilities will be vital as he slots back into a squad already filled with talent. His experience in high-pressure situations will serve City well, especially in their quest for a treble.
3. Timeo Whisker - From Cardiff City Academy (Terms Unknown)
Whisker arrives to bolster the Under-18s squad, adding young talent to City’s already impressive academy setup.
4. Ryan McAidoo - From Chelsea (Terms Unknown)
Another promising young addition, McAidoo joins from Chelsea, showcasing City’s commitment to developing young players.
5. Divin Mubama - From West Ham (£2 million)
Joining the Elite Development Squad (EDS), Mubama is a player with potential and flair, looking to make his mark.
Departures
1. Julian Alvarez (Argentina) - To Atletico Madrid (£81.5 million)
One of the most talked-about exits was Julian Alvarez's transfer to Atletico Madrid. The deal, worth at least £81.5 million, raised eyebrows among fans given Alvarez's talent and potential. Despite his sporadic starting appearances, he managed an impressive tally of 36 goals in 103 appearances for City. This departure represents a significant loss, but it also provides City with a substantial transfer fee to reinvest in the squad.
2. Joao Cancelo (Portugal) - To Al Hilal (£21 million)
Cancelo’s move to Al Hilal marks another high-profile exit, reflecting a shift in City’s defensive strategy. Once a pivotal player, his departure allows for new tactical formations and fresh talent to emerge in the backline.
3. Taylor Harwood-Bellis (England) - To Southampton (£20 million)
The young defender's sale to Southampton highlights City's ongoing strategy to balance the books while still fostering young talent. Harwood-Bellis has shown promise and will look to make a name for himself in the Premier League.
4. Sergio Gomez (Spain) - To Real Sociedad (£8.4 million)
Gomez’s transfer to Real Sociedad allows him to gain more first-team experience in La Liga. His departure frees up space for emerging players while also generating funds.
5. Liam Delap (England) - To Ipswich Town (£15 million)
Delap’s move to Ipswich Town is a significant step for the young striker. With a potential rise to £20 million, this deal includes a buy-back clause, allowing City to retain an option on his future.
6. Kalvin Phillips (England) - To Ipswich Town (Loan)
Phillips’ loan move provides him the opportunity to secure regular playing time, which has been a challenge at City. His experience will bolster Ipswich’s midfield.
7. Yan Couto (Brazil) - To Borussia Dortmund (Loan)
Couto joins Dortmund on a season-long loan with a €30 million obligation to buy. This move gives him valuable playing time in a competitive league while benefiting both clubs.
8. Micah Hamilton (England) - To Middlesbrough (£3.5 million)
Hamilton’s move to Middlesbrough signifies another successful academy graduate taking the next step in his career.
9. Alex Robertson (Australia) - To Cardiff City (£1 million)
The young midfielder joins Cardiff City, allowing him to gain experience and continue his development.
Loan Moves
A number of other players have also moved on loan, allowing them to gain first-team experience:
- Callum Doyle to Norwich City
- Maximo Perrone to Como
- Kayky to Sparta Rotterdam
- Finley Burns to Hull City
- Mahamadou Susoho to Peterborough United
- Luke Mbete to Northampton Town
- Kian Breckin to Crewe Alexandra
- Tomas Galvez to LASK
- True Grant to Buxton
Contract Extensions
In addition to the transfers, City secured contract extensions for key players:
- Stefan Ortega has signed a one-year extension until 2026.
- Scott Carson also signed a one-year extension through 2025.
The summer transfer window of 2024-25 has been a mixed bag for Manchester City. With the additions of Savinho and Gundogan, the squad is both refreshed and familiar. However, the departures of key players like Alvarez and Cancelo have raised questions among fans about the team's depth and future direction. Guardiola's ability to integrate new talents while maintaining the team's competitive edge will be closely monitored throughout the season.
As the new campaign unfolds, all eyes will be on how these changes will affect Manchester City's ambitions, not just in the Premier League but also on the European stage. With a mix of youth and experience, the Sky Blues remain a formidable force, aiming to reclaim their title and perhaps add more trophies to their illustrious collection.