Manchester City midfielder is "overcrowded", five players may be cleaned this summer

As the 2025 summer transfer window comes to an end, Premier League giants Manchester City are facing the problem of over-the-seater midfielder. According to the Manchester Evening News, the club plans to send off several midfielders before the transfer market is closed to optimize the lineup structure.

This season, Manchester City has made frequent moves in the transfer market, signing four new players, including Reindez and Cherki. With the infusion of fresh blood, Guardiola and sports director Hugo Viana decided to "slim down" the midfielder.

Currently, five midfielders may leave this summer:

1. Calvin Phillips

The former England international is completely out of Guardiola's plan. He is likely to return to Leeds United, who has just returned to the Premier League. Phillips played for Leeds United on loan in the 2022-2023 season and was loved by fans.

2.Galish

Although it is the most expensive signing in club history (£117 million), Galish is also facing the possibility of leaving the team this summer. He has attracted the attention of Premier League teams including Tottenham and Everton, and Serie A giants Napoli are also interested in him. However, his salary of up to £300,000 per week has become the biggest obstacle to transfers.

3. Although Nico Gonzalez and Gundogan are not on the club's active sale list, Manchester City is willing to listen to the offer. As Rodri returns from injury, their chances of playing are further reduced. Gundogan had previously joined Barcelona as a free agent and may leave again now.

4. James McCarty

The young midfielder was listed for sale with a price of £20 million to £25 million. McCarty, who just led the England U21 team to win this summer's U21 European Cup, is eager to get a stable playing time, but Guardiola can't guarantee that, so the club hopes to find a new owner for him that can provide more opportunities for the game.

Manchester City is actively adjusting the lineup structure this summer, especially in the midfield position. Guardiola hopes to build a streamlined and more efficient team to cope with the pressure of multi-line combat in the new season. With the addition of new players and the possibility of veterans leaving the team, Manchester City's midfield pattern is ushering in a major reshuffle.