Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City is facing a critical phase, both in the current season and in planning for the future. Struggles on the pitch, including a poor run of form and defensive vulnerabilities, have intensified discussions about squad reinforcements, particularly in the right-back position.
Andrea Cambiaso: Guardiola’s Top Target
According to Football365, Guardiola has identified Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso as a potential successor to Kyle Walker. Walker, who has been a cornerstone of City’s defensive line, is now 34 and showing signs of decline, highlighted by his underwhelming performance in City’s 2-0 defeat to Juventus in the Champions League on December 11.
Cambiaso, 24, is an enticing prospect for Guardiola due to his versatility—he can operate on both defensive flanks effectively. However, Juventus have no intention of selling the Italian, who is under contract until 2029. Additionally, Real Madrid are reportedly interested in Cambiaso, which could further complicate City’s pursuit.
As alternatives, Manchester City are monitoring Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Rayan Ait-Nouri. Both players could fit Guardiola’s tactical system and address the team’s right-back concerns.
City’s Form and Defensive Woes
Manchester City’s recent form has been alarming. They have managed only one win in their last nine games across all competitions and sit fourth in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Their Champions League campaign is also in jeopardy, with the team languishing in 22nd place under the competition’s new format. Much of their struggles have been attributed to the absence of Rodri and inconsistencies in defense.
Guardiola’s Legacy and Future Plans
Despite current struggles, Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City has been immensely successful. Since joining in 2016, he has won a remarkable 18 trophies, including:
- 6 Premier League titles
- 1 Champions League trophy (as part of the 2022/23 European treble)
- 2 FA Cups
- 4 EFL Cups
- 3 Community Shields
- 1 UEFA Super Cup
- 1 FIFA Club World Cup
However, Guardiola’s contract expires at the end of the current season, and he has not committed to a renewal. He has hinted at the possibility of managing a national team in the future, raising questions about his long-term plans.
What Lies Ahead?
City’s ambitions for the 2024/25 season and beyond depend on Guardiola’s ability to stabilize the team and address its weaknesses. Securing a player like Cambiaso could significantly enhance their defensive capabilities, but the competition for his signature and Juventus’ reluctance to sell make this a challenging prospect. Meanwhile, Guardiola’s potential departure looms as another variable in City’s future trajectory.
