April 21, 2025
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Danny Murphy names Nottingham Forest star Gibbs-White as ideal de Bruyne replacement

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Man City set to hold talks with Kevin De Bruyne amid Saudi links

In a surprising twist to Manchester City’s midfield succession plan, former Premier League star Danny Murphy has tipped Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White as the ideal replacement for Kevin De Bruyne.

“He’s Got It All” – Danny Murphy Backs Gibbs-White to Replace De Bruyne at City

With De Bruyne confirming his emotional departure from City at the end of the season, speculation around his successor has intensified.

The Belgian maestro, who’s arguably City’s greatest-ever player, leaves behind a staggering legacy—six Premier League titles, a Champions League, five Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and an incredible tally of 106 goals and 176 assists in 414 appearances.

As City brace for life after De Bruyne, names like Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz have emerged. But Murphy believes the answer could lie closer to home.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Murphy praised Gibbs-White, saying, “He’s just got it all. He’s shining in that Forest side.

He’s terrific with his back to goal, a great passer, takes risks, and is willing to work hard off the ball—something you don’t always get from attacking players.”

The 24-year-old has enjoyed a stellar campaign under Nuno Espirito Santo, with five goals and nine assists so far.

Notably, he’s also taken on the captain’s armband in the absence of Ryan Yates, showcasing maturity and leadership qualities that would be vital at a club like City.

Murphy did note one challenge: “The only question you’d have is playing under bigger pressure and having to do it more consistently.”

Still, he believes Gibbs-White’s all-round game, versatility, and hunger make him a worthy contender for the Etihad spotlight.

With City set to face Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semi-final on April 20, Pep Guardiola will have a close-up view of a player who could be central to their future midfield.

Whether it’s a £121 million move for Wirtz or a bold Premier League pick in Gibbs-White, City’s post-De Bruyne era is taking shape—and the Englishman might just be the surprise successor no one saw coming.

Manchester City hope to extend Divine Mukasa’s contract to keep him next season

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Pep Guardiola assistant Juanmo Lillo leaves Etihad for managerial role
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In response to interest from Europe, Etihad Stadium officials are intensifying their efforts to extend the contract of one of their best players. Over the next several weeks, Manchester City is anticipated to conduct a thorough evaluation of its first-team possibilities, which may include a look at academy prospects who are prepared to advance to senior men’s football.

This comes as Pep Guardiola’s team has struggled greatly this season for a variety of reasons, mostly related to injuries and fitness issues, and they are in danger of missing out on playing in the UEFA Champions League the following season.

According to transfer market analyst Fabrizio Romano, both Bayern Munich and Ajax have dispatched scouts this month to pursue Divine Mukasa, a highly regarded attacking midfield talent for Manchester City.

But Romano says Manchester City is also planning to extend the 17-year-old’s contract and keep him on staff because of the widespread belief at the Etihad Stadium that he has a bright future.

Man City gem Divine Mukasa attracting Bayern Munich interest

According to trade specialist Fabrizio Romano, both Ajax and Bayern Munich are showing interest in Man City’s Divine Mukasa. Although City hopes to keep Mukasa in Manchester, the two European powerhouses have been scouting the adolescent.

According to recent reports, Mukasa is a prospect that could surpass Nico O’Reilly, a defender who has been thriving under Guardiola in 2025. The 17-year-old has been likened to De Bruyne by The Secret Scout, while football scout Antonio Mango has called Mukasa a “game changer.”

According to Man City’s official website, Mukasa is a talented and imaginative midfielder who “adds an extra level of creativity to every side he plays in.” He is a player who thrives in tight spaces and is well capable of scoring and assisting goals.

If City retains him, the attacking midfielder could be the next to break into Guardiola’s first-team plans after contributing an incredible 42 goals in just 35 games at the youth level in 2024–2025.

Man City star forward Haaland could make a drastic move and force his departure

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Haaland and De Bruyne hailed as English football's greatest ever duo
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According to rumors, Man City striker Erling Haaland is currently thinking about his future with the Citizens having trouble in the Premier League. Haaland, who has scored 30 goals in 40 games across all competitions this season, has reportedly been growing impatient with the Man City project despite Pep Guardiola recently signing a new deal, according to reports in Spain over the past few months.

Rodri’s injury has really hurt Man City’s prospects of winning the title this time around, as they have fallen to fifth place in the standings. Arne Slot’s team is a very different power this season, and they are 21 points behind Premier League champions Liverpool. Because of their dismal performance this season, there were rumors that Haaland would think about joining Real Madrid or Barcelona during the summer transfer window.

Nonetheless, Haaland was overjoyed to have committed his future to the reigning Premier League champions when Man City announced in February that the Norway international had inked a new nine-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad Stadium.

Erling Haaland disappointed with Manchester City

Haaland is reportedly “already considering his future” and may make a “surprise” summer departure from the Etihad Stadium, according to reports in Spain. Their current Premier League standing has “raised alarm bells” for the Man City striker, as the Norway international is “beginning to question his continued presence at the Etihad Stadium.”

Guardiola’s team is currently in fifth place in the Premier League standings and faces the possibility of eliminating all chance of qualifying for the Champions League following Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Manchester United.

While seventh-place Newcastle is one point behind the Citizens but, crucially, has two games left to play against Man City, sixth-place Aston Villa is one point behind and within striking distance of the Citizens.

The statement clarifies that “competing at the highest level, winning major titles, and competing in the Champions League every year” are Haaland’s non-negotiable objectives. Although Man City has “no intention of letting their star player leave” despite interest from other teams, Haaland “may make a drastic decision and force his departure” if the problem worsens.

Kevin De bruyne has officially played his last manchester derby of his career

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Man City is not interested to renew Kevin De Bruyne contract

Kevin De Bruyne was on the field the entire time yesterday as Manchester City and Manchester United drew 0–1. During his final Manchester Derby appearance, he made an effort to motivate and encourage his side. Even though he gave it his all, De Bruyne did exhaust himself in the last moments of the game.

Even though it was evident that the legs that had allowed him to achieve such incredible things on the field were no longer able to support him as they once did, the Manchester City legend could not have done more to motivate his team.

On the field yesterday, Kevin De Bruyne played a more advanced offensive role. With the same intensity that has been a hallmark of his play throughout his career, he did lead City’s high press in the early going of the game.

Both of De Bruyne’s noteworthy left-footed shots throughout the match were aimed directly at Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, who easily collected them both. Although there were several moments in De Bruyne’s performance, it encapsulated his current status as a player.

Bruyne’s Manchester derby struggles summed up with alarming statistic

In a run of 88 games with at least one chance created, De Bruyne had not played the entire 90 minutes without creating at least one goal for his teammates since a match against West Ham United in April 2018.

Even though it wasn’t the ideal conclusion to De Bruyne’s Manchester derby legacy, United captain Bruno Fernandes still singled out the Belgium international for praise following the match.

For Fernandes, “De Bruyne improved the Premier League,” Sky Sports said. “Kevin De Bruyne deserves all the credit if City is ahead of Manchester United and the team hasn’t won many titles recently.

“He did an amazing job. Being in the Premier League for ten years is a lot. They have made the decision to separate. I am unsure of the source, but it was enjoyable to observe Kevin up close. He continues to be world-class. Playing against him was enjoyable. Not just for Man City, but for the Premier League as a whole, he will live on.

Manchester City plot shock return for Morgan Rogers as De Bruyne replacement

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Man City linked with Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey
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Manchester City are reportedly considering a surprising move to re-sign Aston Villa’s attacking midfielder, Morgan Rogers, as a potential replacement for the departing Kevin De Bruyne.

Pep Guardiola eyes Rogers return as City prepare for life after De Bruyne

De Bruyne recently announced he will leave the club at the end of the season, concluding a remarkable 10-year tenure.

Rogers, 22, began his professional journey in Manchester City’s academy before moving to Middlesbrough in 2023. His impressive performances there led to a £15 million transfer to Aston Villa in February 2024.

Since joining Villa, Rogers has made significant strides, tallying 8 goals and 6 assists in 30 Premier League appearances during the 2024-2025 season.

According to TEAMtalk, City hold “serious hopes” of bringing Rogers back to the Etihad Stadium, with manager Pep Guardiola reportedly “in love” with the young midfielder’s talent.

However, Aston Villa are expected to demand a substantial fee to part with one of their key players.

Rogers’ development has garnered attention, with former Manchester United and Aston Villa striker Dwight Yorke praising him as one of the Premier League’s standout young talents this season.

Yorke remarked, “I really like the Villa player, Morgan Rogers. Like, wow… He’s a great prospect and he’s flourishing at Aston Villa under Unai Emery.”

As Manchester City prepare for life after De Bruyne, the potential re-signing of Rogers underscores the club’s commitment to investing in young, homegrown talent to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League.

Man City plan to replace De Bruyne with Atalanta midfielder Charles De Ketelaere

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Man City set to hold talks with Kevin De Bruyne amid Saudi links

Kevin De Bruyne, the midfielder for Manchester City, has declared his intention to leave the Premier League team at the end of the current campaign. One of the greatest players to have ever played in the league, the Belgian midfielder departs Pep Guardiola’s team. He departs the team as one of the greatest players in its history and helped the Premier League team win six titles.

The Belgian midfield player, who was signed from Wolfsburg a decade ago, helped Man City win a treble, including a victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, and created magical moments for the team.

The creative midfielder is difficult to replace, and the Sky Blues have begun to work on a plan to do so. Caught Offside sources claim that if the Florian Wirtz transfer doesn’t work out, Man City may consider Charles De Ketelaere, a midfielder for Atalanta, as a possible replacement for De Bruyne.

Kevin De Bruyne, the midfielder for Manchester City, has declared his intention to leave the Premier League team at the end of the current campaign. One of the greatest players to have ever played in the league, the Belgian midfielder departs Pep Guardiola’s team. He departs the team as one of the greatest players in its history and helped the Premier League team win six titles.

The Belgian midfield player, who was signed from Wolfsburg a decade ago, helped Man City win a treble, including a victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, and created magical moments for the team.

The creative midfielder is difficult to replace, and the Sky Blues have begun to work on a plan to do so. Caught Offside sources claim that if the Florian Wirtz transfer doesn’t work out, Man City may consider Charles De Ketelaere, a midfielder for Atalanta, as a possible replacement for De Bruyne.

De Bruyne Replacement Revealed

If Manchester City doesn’t acquire Florian Wirtz this summer, De Ketelaere is a potential target, according to reputable Kompany sources. Additionally, it has been disclosed that Atalanta is not anticipated to demand an exorbitant asking price for the Belgian international.

Atalanta is anticipating possible bids as the competition for De Ketelaere’s services intensifies, with Premier League teams threatening to make a move for the talented player. Due to a sell-on clause, AC Milan is also involved; thus, the stakes are high as teams get ready to compete for the desired midfield player.

In a way, no player can take Kevin De Bruyne’s place. It is impossible to replace the Manchester City mythology. To make up for De Bruyne’s departure, Pep Guardiola’s team will need to add some inventive players to their roster.

To make the developing story even more intriguing, former Italian striker Antonio Cassano has even predicted De Ketelaere to be a future Ballon d’Or contender. The football community is excitedly awaiting the next phase of Manchester City’s development as the team prepares for a post-De Bruyne era.

Manchester City set to sign PSG’s Mahamadou Sangare this transfer

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Manchester City vs PSG Head To Head
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Paris Saint-Germain are bracing for the departure of one of their brightest young stars, with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola set to swoop in and secure the signing of 18-year-old Mahamadou Sangare this summer.

PSG Wonderkid Mahamadou Sangare Set for Manchester City Switch

According to a report from RMC Sport, PSG are certain to lose Sangare, who has yet to sign a professional contract with the club.

This opens the door for interested clubs across Europe — and Manchester City are leading the race. The Cityzens are reportedly confident of landing the French striker, whose stock has skyrocketed following a stellar campaign in the UEFA Youth League.

Sangare has been turning heads with his prolific form, scoring eight goals in just six games to become joint-top scorer in the competition, despite PSG failing to reach the knockout rounds.

His performances also earned him a recent call-up to the France U18 national team — further proof of his growing reputation.

While Sangare won’t walk straight into Guardiola’s senior squad at the Etihad, Manchester City have a clear development plan in place.

If the move materialises, the club intends to loan him out to Troyes — part of the City Football Group — where he can gain valuable first-team experience in Ligue 2.

City’s pursuit of Sangare aligns with Guardiola’s ongoing squad rebuild. After spending £180 million in the winter transfer window and facing the potential exits of senior players like Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Jack Grealish, the Premier League champions are keen on investing in long-term talent.

With Julian Alvarez still not adequately replaced and Phil Foden struggling to replicate last season’s form, Sangare’s arrival could be the first step in laying down the next generation of attacking firepower at the club.

For PSG, however, the loss of a homegrown talent like Sangare without ever tying him down to a professional deal will be a bitter pill to swallow — and a stark reminder of the growing competition for Europe’s best young talents.

Manchester City star Jack Grealish dedicates goal to late brother Keelan

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Who is Jack Grealish: Manchester City's most expensive player
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On April 2, 2025, Manchester City’s Jack Grealish ended a 16-month Premier League goal drought by scoring early in a 2-0 victory over Leicester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Jack Grealish’s Special Goal: A Tribute to His Late Brother on an Emotional Day

Jack Grealish set to miss upcoming England matches
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The goal held profound significance for Grealish, as it coincided with the 25th anniversary of his younger brother Keelan’s passing. Keelan tragically died from cot death at just nine months old when Jack was four.

 

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In a heartfelt post-match interview, the 29-year-old winger expressed the emotional weight of the moment.

“This day is always hard in the family, but I was happy to score,” Grealish said.

“My mum and dad were here. This day is always difficult in the family. So to score and to win was brilliant.”

Grealish has consistently honored Keelan’s memory throughout his career. He dedicated his first senior goal during a loan spell at Notts County in the 2013-14 season to his late brother.

Similarly, in November 2018, while playing for Aston Villa, he dedicated a goal in a 4-2 victory to Keelan, revealing he had “tears in my eyes” during the celebration.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola commended Grealish’s resilience and character.

“Jack is an incredible human being in terms of gestures and he’s incredibly generous,” Guardiola said.

“I can’t imagine how tough it was but to be with his mum and dad, his sister and all the family, it’s good.

He scored a goal and made a good game. I’m happy for him. I know it’s not easy when you don’t play quite regularly.”

The victory propelled Manchester City back into fourth place in the Premier League, intensifying their pursuit of Champions League qualification.

Omar Marmoush added the second goal after 29 minutes, solidifying the team’s position. Leicester City, on the other hand, faced their seventh consecutive defeat, deepening their relegation concerns.

Grealish’s poignant tribute and performance not only highlighted his personal journey but also underscored his enduring commitment to family, resonating deeply with fans and teammates alike.

Guardiola admits Mourinho was right about football’s harsh reality

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Pep Guardiola Hits Back At Mourinho - Is He A Doctor

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has candidly acknowledged the formidable challenges his team has faced this season, drawing parallels to sentiments previously expressed by his long-time rival, Jose Mourinho.

“We Took It for Granted” – Guardiola’s Candid Admission After City’s Toughest Season

Guardiola emphasized that securing a spot in the Champions League amid a season plagued by injuries would rank among his most satisfying achievements.

The squad has been significantly impacted by the prolonged absence of key players, including Ballon d’Or winner Rodri and prolific striker Erling Haaland, who is expected to be sidelined for up to seven weeks due to an ankle injury sustained during the FA Cup quarter-final against Bournemouth.

Reflecting on these adversities, Guardiola remarked, “I said this before, a thousand million times, that people take for granted that City are going to be in the Champions League every season.

I know how difficult it is.” He underscored the rarity of consistent qualification, noting, “We’re the only one in the last, I don’t know how many years, who have been there.

This kind of thing I give a lot of importance to, because it’s the consistency I’ve always been looking for as a manager.”

City currently sits fifth in the Premier League standings, with a mere four points separating them from 10th-placed Bournemouth, highlighting the intense competition for Champions League qualification.

Guardiola admitted to sensing potential challenges earlier in the season, stating, “I could smell City crisis coming three months ago.”

In a moment of reflection, Guardiola acknowledged a shared perspective with Mourinho, who has previously highlighted the difficulties of maintaining top-tier performance amid various challenges. This admission adds a layer of mutual understanding to their storied rivalry.

As City prepares to host Leicester on Wednesday, the team remains focused on overcoming these obstacles and securing their place among Europe’s elite, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

Manchester City to make surprise move for Arsenal’s William Saliba

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Gary Neville labels Arsenal’s end-of-season form “desperate”
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Manchester City is reportedly considering a bold move to sign Arsenal’s standout defender, William Saliba, as part of a significant squad overhaul aimed at addressing their defensive vulnerabilities.

Manchester City preparing offer for Arsenal’s star defender William Saliba

Under Pep Guardiola’s leadership, City has faced an uncharacteristically challenging season, currently positioned fifth in the Premier League standings with a win rate below 50% after 29 matches.

Despite a recent morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Bournemouth, securing a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals, Guardiola remains focused on fortifying the team’s backline.

William Saliba, 24, has been a linchpin in Arsenal’s defense, forming a formidable partnership with Brazilian defender Gabriel.

Since his return to the Gunners in 2022, following loan spells in France, Saliba has amassed 122 appearances across all competitions, earning accolades for his strength, pace, tackling prowess, and composure.

His consistent performances have not only solidified Arsenal’s defense but have also attracted attention from top European clubs.

Reports suggest that Guardiola is planning a ‘revolution’ at the Etihad Stadium to reclaim domestic dominance and address the team’s defensive frailties.

Identifying Saliba as a prime target, City is reportedly preparing a substantial offer to entice the French international.

However, Arsenal is expected to resist any attempts to lure away their defensive stalwart, especially to a direct Premier League rival.

Saliba’s current contract with Arsenal extends until the end of the 2026/27 season, reinforcing the club’s strong position in retaining him.

While the prospect of a high-profile transfer adds intrigue to the upcoming transfer window, it remains to be seen whether Manchester City’s interest will materialize into a formal bid and how Arsenal will respond to such overtures.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the football community will keenly observe developments surrounding Saliba’s future and Manchester City’s strategic moves to bolster their squad.