Man City need squad overhaul this summer after Champions League collapse

Despite a hefty January investment of 180 million pounds on new players, the team's performance has been far from satisfactory.

Kevin De Bruyne:

Pep Guardiola's midfield maestro, De Bruyne, has been a shadow of his former self this season. Injuries have taken their toll, and his lack of match fitness was evident. Guardiola might regret not capitalizing on potential offers from Saudi clubs last summer, as De Bruyne's contract nears its end.

Mateo Kovacic:

Kovacic, who has won the Champions League four times, has not lived up to expectations at City. He has played more minutes this season due to Rodri's absence, but his performances have been inconsistent, particularly when expected to lead the midfield.

Matheus Nunes:

The Portuguese midfielder, who cost City 53 million pounds, has been misplaced across the pitch. Playing just 210 minutes in his natural central midfield role, Nunes has been deployed at right-back and on the left wing, positions unfamiliar to him, leading to subpar performances.

Ilkay Gundogan:

Once an enigmatic force in City's midfield, Gundogan's pace has slowed significantly. His once-effective late runs into the box are now rare, and his play has become predictable and less impactful.

Nathan Ake:

Ake's defensive contributions have been overshadowed by his injury-prone season, missing 31 games since April 2023. His role has diminished with the arrival of Josko Gvardiol, highlighting his struggle to maintain a consistent spot in the team.

Bernardo Silva:

Silva is having arguably his worst season at City, with his contract winding down. The club might have missed a window to secure a high transfer fee, now potentially getting far less than what could have been offered by clubs like PSG or Barcelona last summer.

Rico Lewis:

Despite being an option at right-back, Lewis appeared overwhelmed against Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior. His performance has raised questions about his readiness for big games, prompting City to consider new defensive recruits.

Ederson:

The goalkeeper's mistakes were pivotal in the match against Madrid. His decision-making has been questionable, leading to speculation that City might have been better off accepting transfer offers for him last summer.

Jack Grealish:

Grealish showed glimpses of his talent with a key assist, but his season has been hampered by injuries and lack of consistent playtime. His role at City seems increasingly uncertain with new competition for places.

Manuel Akanji:

Akanji managed well in the first half but his season has been marred by several errors, appearing to age prematurely in football terms.

John Stones:

Stones, versatile in defense and midfield, struggled visibly in the second half against Real Madrid, his physical decline evident as the game progressed.

This performance against Real Madrid isn't just a match lost; it's a stark indicator of the changes Manchester City must make if they aim to reclaim their top spot in European football.

Guardiola has a significant task ahead to rebuild and refresh this squad.