Guardiola's Squad Depth Nightmare

Following Manchester City's opening two fixtures where they played Wolves and Europa League champions Tottenham, Pep Guardiola still seems uncomfortable with the amount of players in his squad.

Why is this a problem?

Pep Guardiola has expressed his discontent with the size of the Manchester City squad multiple times now. Most recently following their 4-0 victory over wolves where the City manager claimed that it is "not healthy" and that "you cannot create a good vibe." The manager is clearly concerned about the morale and mindset of his players.

Can it be solved?

There is not much time for Pep's squad depth concerns to be fixed with the summer transfer window closing in only a few days on September the 1st. Tottenham had interest in the Brazilian Savinho, however, City shut down the chance of him leaving. Crystal palace and AC Milan are said to have interest in Manuel Akanji but they will need to be quick to secure the 30 year old’s signature. Galatasaray are said to want Ederson but nothing has been agreed between the Turkish club and Manchester City. Which leaves people wondering if the problem will be solved this summer.

Change is Happening

Hugo Viana has been put in charge this summer of transfers after being hired as the director of football, taking over from Tixi Begiristain who was the former director of football from 2012- 2025, having brought in players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and more recently Erling Haaland. Viana has a big job infront of him and is already being praised for his amazing business such as bringing Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders to the club. Viana has also seen players leave the club such as Jack Grealish and James McAtee.

More players Joining?

Despite Guardiola's calls for a smaller squad there are still talks of players joining such as PSG's unwanted 26 year old goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. However, it is reported Manchester City will only complete the signing if Ederson leaves the club. This signing would put the future of James Trafford at doubt despite him only just joining the club this summer.

🚨🔵⚪️ Negotiations are continuing in the background for Gigio Donnarumma to Manchester City.

Positive talks with PSG on €30/35m deal and total agreement with Donnarumma… but still waiting for Éderson exit.

Galatasaray want Éderson, Al Nassr not in talks. pic.twitter.com/EjfgOcZLMK

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2025

City's Injury Troubles

A certain positive for Pep Guardiola is that despite the injuries of Josko Gvardiol, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Mateo Kovacic, there are plenty of players to cover. However there is still doubt surrounding Rodri, Phil Foden and Savinho due to only just returning from injury. Manchester City struggled with injuries last season as they had to resort to youth and playing multiple players out of their usual position such as Matheus Nunes at right back and Nico O'Reilly who played at left back despite both of them being central midfielders.

It remains to be seen if City will alter the squad before the deadline. If Pep Guardiola is to have his way, you can be sure of a couple more exits at the Etihad.