Manchester City, known for their active and ambitious presence in the transfer market, adopted a more reserved strategy during the 2024/25 summer transfer window. Unlike previous years, where the Premier League champions often made headline-grabbing signings, this season saw them make only two notable additions to their squad.
A Strategic Focus on Fine-Tuning
Under the leadership of Pep Guardiola and sporting director Txiki Begiristain, Manchester City’s approach this summer was marked by a focus on refining their existing team rather than pursuing a flurry of new acquisitions. This decision reflects a strategic shift aimed at maintaining the stability and cohesion that have been central to their recent successes.
Manchester City’s 2024/25 Signings
- Savinho: The Brazilian winger joined Manchester City from Troyes on a five-year deal. Having played a pivotal role in Girona’s qualification for the Champions League during a loan spell last season, Savinho brings promising talent and potential to the squad. His arrival is expected to add depth and versatility to City’s attacking options.
- Ilkay Gündogan: After a successful season with Manchester City, where he won the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and the English FA Cup, Gündogan made a return to the club following his departure to Barcelona. With Barcelona having signed Dani Olmo, Gündogan found himself surplus to requirements at the Catalonia giants and rejoined City to strengthen their midfield.
As the 2024/25 season unfolds, the effectiveness of Manchester City’s relatively quiet transfer window will become clearer. The club’s decision to prioritize squad stability over major signings is a testament to their confidence in their current roster. However, the real test will be whether this understated approach will be enough to keep them ahead of their more proactive rivals or if they will find themselves scrambling to catch up as the season progresses.
Only time will tell if Manchester City’s strategy will prove to be a masterstroke of prudence or a missed opportunity in their quest to maintain their dominance both domestically and in Europe.
