The Premier League’s 2023-24 season is underway, and Manchester City has unveiled its 20-man roster for the campaign. While many familiar names like Julian Alvarez, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Erling Haaland made the cut, there are some notable absences, including Josko Gvardiol, Jeremy Doku, and Rico Lewis, the breakout player of the previous season.
However, there’s no need for panic among City fans. The Premier League rules allow clubs to select up to 25 players for their squad, and they can also include individuals under the age of 21 without having to include them on the official squad list. This means that Gvardiol, Doku, and Lewis, although omitted from the list, will still be eligible to compete in the top division this season.
One interesting inclusion in the squad is Zack Steffen, the goalkeeper. While it’s unlikely that Steffen will start ahead of established keepers like Stefan Ortega or Ederson, his presence on the list provides valuable depth in the goalkeeping department.
Manchester City is set to resume Premier League action, and the return of manager Pep Guardiola to the sidelines is a source of encouragement for the team. Guardiola had missed three games due to a back injury before the international break, but City managed to maintain their undefeated start to the season with victories against Fulham and Sheffield United in his absence.
The squad roster, with its mix of experienced players and rising stars, reflects City’s ambition to continue their success in the Premier League. The likes of De Bruyne, Foden, Grealish, and Haaland are expected to be key contributors in the team’s quest for silverware.
It’s worth noting that the Premier League’s rules regarding squad selection allow for flexibility, enabling clubs to adapt to changing circumstances and injuries throughout the season. This flexibility ensures that talented young players like Gvardiol, Doku, and Lewis can still play a significant role for Manchester City as the season progresses.
In addition to the squad announcement, Manchester City also revealed their new away kit, the PumaxCity shirt. The design of the kit draws inspiration from Manchester’s industrial heritage, featuring an all-over tonal graphic pattern reminiscent of the city’s industrial landscape, mills, and warehouses. This unique design pays homage to Manchester’s rich history while representing the club’s commitment to innovation and progress.
As City prepares to face West Ham United in their upcoming Premier League fixture, fans can look forward to an exciting season with a talented squad that includes both established stars and promising young talents who may not be on the official list but will undoubtedly have an impact on the team’s performance in the top division.
