Manchester City has received instructions to allow two players to depart during the January transfer window. Despite the winter window typically being slow for City in terms of transfers, the club’s recent lone addition, Maximo Perrone, didn’t make a substantial impact as he was promptly loaned to Las Palmas.
The history of City’s midseason additions highlights a preference for avoiding the market due to perceived poor value for money. The last significant January signing was Aymeric Laporte in 2019, who proved pivotal in defense, contributing to multiple championship wins under Pep Guardiola.
While City has a relatively small squad compared to other Premier League teams, the possibility of departures looms. A MEN Sport reader poll gauged fan sentiments on whether each player should be sold or retained. Kalvin Phillips, who has faced limited playing time since joining from Leeds United last year, garnered the least support, with only 11.7% of fans wanting him to stay. Phillips acknowledges the need for regular playing time to secure a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad and hints at a potential departure.
Sergio Gomez, another player on the sale list, received only 46% support. Despite showing promise in cameo appearances on the flank, Gomez faces challenges in securing a starting role. On the other hand, Zack Steffen, City’s reserve goalkeeper, received 61.8% support, indicating fans’ preference for retaining him.
The dynamics of the January transfer window suggest that while City tends to avoid major signings, potential departures could reshape the squad. Phillips, seeking more playing time, and Gomez, with limited opportunities despite impressive displays, emerge as likely candidates to leave. As the transfer window unfolds, City’s approach and fan sentiments will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s composition.
