Will Manchester City Replace Riyad Mahrez After Winger’s Departure?

Manchester City won an historic Treble last season as Pep Guardiola’s team set a new precedent at the top of English and European soccer. Regardless, a process of renewal has started at Etihad Stadium with Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez – two key figures – moved on during the summer transfer window.

Gundogan left City as a free agent at the end of last season to join Barcelona before Mahrez completed a £30m transfer to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia this week. Guardiola might have preferred both players to stay for another season, but the pair were over the age of 30 and into the twilight of their careers. City can now replenish.

City have been relatively quiet in the summer transfer window so far. They moved quickly to sign Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea in a €30m deal, but the Croatian international remains the only new addition at Etihad Stadium. Guardiola is reportedly pushing for transfers to be made before the start of the new season.

Josko Gvardiol is believed to be a top target. Manchester City have tracked the central defender for a number of years and have started negotiations with RB Leipzig over a deal. City, however, might have to prioritise the signing of a new attacker, particularly after the departure of Mahrez to the Saudi Pro League.

Phil Foden could step into the void left by Gundogan with the England international a good fit for Guardiola’s approach. After being something of a peripheral figure last season, Foden is ready to assume a more central role for Manchester City. Cole Palmer could also receive more game time next term.

Michael Olise is reportedly on City’s radar with the Premier
PINC
League champions apparently weighing up an offer for the Crystal Palace player. He would give Guardiola another attack-minded operator to mould with Olise still only 21 – the Palace midfielder would represent an investment in the future.

Guardiola liked Mahrez so much because of the control he offered. Raheem Sterling was a more explosive presence on the wing for Manchester City, but Mahrez was kept around for longer because of the way he could manipulate the ball in possession. Olise has the same quality as the Algerian.

That City have identified Olise as a target says a lot about the profile of player they are looking for in the transfer window. They want players with the skill set to succeed under Guardiola, but with room to grow further. Gundogan and Mahrez weren’t always fully appreciated during their time at Etihad Stadium. That might change now that City are trying to replace them.