Manchester City Faces Challenges: Poor Form and Potential Winter Transfers

Manchester City has recently hit a rough patch, managing only 1 draw and suffering 5 losses in their last 6 games. In the Premier League, they are now 8 points behind the league leaders. If they lose the next match against the top team, the gap could widen to 11 points, leaving their title hopes in jeopardy. With the winter transfer window approaching, City plans to bolster their squad through key signings.

Defensive Struggles Exposed

City’s defensive performance has been lackluster, with Pep Guardiola’s carefully structured defensive system appearing to falter. The midfield’s ability to intercept and the backline’s coordination have fallen below expectations. While the absence of Ruben Dias has impacted the squad’s depth, the team’s overall form has declined. Aging players are showing reduced physical capacity and fighting spirit, signaling a need for rebuilding.

On the right-back position, Kyle Walker has been particularly disappointing this season. His defensive habits are poor, and his anticipation skills are lacking. While he has relied on speed and physicality to compensate, his aging has reduced these strengths, making the right flank a defensive weakness. According to The Telegraph, City is pushing forward with plans to sign Jeremie Frimpong. The 23-year-old full-back is exceptionally fast and boasts better technical skills and scoring ability than Walker.

Left-Back Concerns

On the left-back side, Joško Gvardiol has shown scoring prowess but lacks the speed and agility to effectively contribute on both ends of the pitch. There are calls for him to return to his natural center-back position. Meanwhile, Guardiola is reportedly impressed by Frimpong’s teammate, Alejandro Grimaldo. Despite being 29 years old, Grimaldo is expected to maintain a high level of performance for the next three years. If City successfully signs both full-backs, their defensive strength will see significant improvement.

Midfield Reinforcements Needed

Strengthening the defensive midfield is also an urgent priority. Previously, Martín Zubimendi and Adam Wharton were rumored targets. However, Zubimendi prefers to stay with Real Sociedad, and Wharton has not fully convinced City’s management. According to the Manchester Evening News, City is now focusing on signing Frenkie de Jong. With the rise of players like Casadei and the return of others from injury, De Jong’s importance at Barcelona has diminished. Moreover, disagreements over his contract renewal have led Barcelona to consider selling him.

City hopes to secure De Jong for a fee under €50 million during the winter transfer window, despite his market value being €80 million. The player himself is reportedly open to the move.