Manchester City experienced a mixed transfer window this summer as Pep Guardiola lost – but also added – some big names.
The Citizens waved goodbye to figures such as Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte, but responded by signing Josko Gvardiol, Jeremy Doku, Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes.
However – according to the Telegraph – there was a tinge of disappointment at Manchester City about one deal…
What’s the story?
Well, it is said that those at the Etihad Stadium were left saddened after Jude Bellingham chose to join Real Madrid.
The 20-year-old swapped Borussia Dortmund for Real Madrid in an £88.5m deal back in June.
Bellingham has since become even more of a superstar than he was, scoring five goals in five appearances in La Liga so far, while also providing one assist.
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The Birmingham-born sensation has also shone on the international stage this season, scoring and assisting in England’s recent 3-1 win over Scotland.
Nevertheless, the Telegraph add that Manchester City were happy with the business they did manage to complete, while the contract renewals for Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva are also viewed as huge positives internally.
Manchester City right to feel satisfied with transfer business
A deal for Bellingham – or Declan Rice – would have obviously been nice for Manchester City, but Guardiola and his team are right to feel pleased with their business.
The additions of two superb ball carriers in Kovacic and Nunes should offer a fresh dimension in midfield, while the unique threat of Doku gives Manchester City a new threat out wide.
In regards to Gvardiol, the Croatian has the potential to become Europe’s best defender within a few years – he is already among the elite at the age of just 21.
It is tough to improve a treble winning side, without a doubt, but Manchester City may have just managed to do it.