City's 2025/26 Season Preview: Guardiola's Return to Lead Manchester City Back to Dominance
Manchester City is gearing up for an exciting 2025/26 Premier League season, with most experts predicting a top-four finish for the Sky Blues. The team, under the steady guidance of Enzo Maresca, is expected to challenge for the title, with some forecasts even placing them as high as 1st or 2nd [1][2].
The squad's core strength lies in their world-class attacking talent, led by Erling Haaland, who was the top scorer for the team during the 2024-25 season with an impressive 31 goals [1]. Kevin De Bruyne, another key player, is highly rated among Fantasy Premier League picks, indicating their importance to City's success [3][4].
However, City's aggressive playing style leaves them vulnerable to counterattacks, which could impact their consistency [2]. Additionally, the absence of Spanish midfielder Rodri, who suffered an ACL injury during the 2024-25 season, was greatly felt as the team suffered a run of nine defeats in 12 games in all competitions without him [1].
City has made some significant additions to the squad, including Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico Gonzalez, Vitor Reis, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayans Cherki, and Ait-Nouri [5]. These new signings, along with the financial and structural improvements made to the team, aim to position City as a strong title contender once again [1].
Despite the challenges, fans remain optimistic. Lloyd Scragg, a City fan, believes that the team will finish 1st in the 2024-25 season [6]. Scragg also expressed a desire to have Aymeric Laporte and Tino Livramento of Newcastle on the team [7].
Manchester City's late gallop secured Champions League qualification with 10 games unbeaten at the end of the 2024-25 season [5]. To stay updated with outstanding written analysis on City, follow @theskybluetimes on social media [8].
It's worth noting that the hearing into alleged breaches of the Premier League financial rules for Manchester City finished at the end of 2024, but at the time of writing, there was still no verdict [9].
City's average age has been lowered dramatically after 24 months of inaction in the transfer market, with the signing of Oscar Bobb, a 22-year-old player, expected to have a breakthrough season in 2024-25 [5]. Erling Haaland is signed with the team until 2034 [10], ensuring a strong attacking force for years to come.
Pep Guardiola extended his contract with Manchester City until 2027, demonstrating his commitment to the team [11]. With a strong squad, a talented coach, and the support of passionate fans, Manchester City is poised for another exciting season in the Premier League.
[1] The Guardian
[2] ESPN
[3] Fantasy Premier League
[4] Fantasy Premier League
[5] Manchester Evening News
[6] Lloyd Scragg's Twitter
[7] Lloyd Scragg's Twitter
[8] The Sky Blue Times
[9] BBC Sport
[10] Manchester City FC
[11] Manchester City FC
Manchester City, with its formidable attacking lineup led by Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne, is expected to challenge for the Premier League title in the upcoming 2025/26 season, vying for positions in the top European leagues. Despite their aggressive playing style that leaves them vulnerable to counterattacks, the team's new signings and structural improvements aim to bolster their title contention.
