The standards are incredibly high at Manchester City and if you’re not reaching them you’re going to be in trouble.
The epitome of that is the sad story of Kalvin Phillips, who may have a treble triumph to his name but played no significant part in it.
Manchester City signed the defensive midfielder as back-up for Rodri but Pep Guardiola never trusted him to play in his place.
Even when Rodri was suspended this season, the Blues boss opted to move Bernardo Silva deeper before starting Phillips in an important game.
The 28-year-old was never good enough and now he’s joined West Ham on loan where his struggles continue.
It doesn’t matter how much money City have spent on a player, they are able and prepared to swallow their losses if he isn’t good enough.
Jeremy Doku has already contributed far more to City this season than Phillips has but he needs to be careful he doesn’t find himself on the chopping block next.
Man City reportedly interested in forwards
The summer transfer window is still months away but City will be drafting up their recruitment plans and a new forward could be on the wanted list.
According to HITC, City’s scouts made a trip to watch Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia this past week and are continuing to ‘keep tabs’ on the exciting forward ahead of the window opening.
The Georgian international was the breakout star in European football last season as he inspired Napoli to their first league title since 1980.
Thierry Henry even described him as ‘magnificent’ when watching him in European action.
It’s added the Serie A champions are unlikely to sell Kvaratskhelia, who has 10 goals and six assists this season, given they are likely to lose Victor Osimhen this year.
However, the fact City are interested in another forward should set alarm bells ringing for Doku.
Jeremy Doku needs to improve
Doku had an explosive start to life at City and immediately became a fan favourite thanks to his thrilling attacking play.
While Jack Grealish was moulded into a conservative cog in the machine by Guardiola upon his arrival, the 21-year-old was given free rein to remain an all-out forward.
Doku has thrilled with his pace and lightning-quick skill as he quickly racked up seven goal contributions.
However, they have dried up with Doku now not scoring or assisting in the Premier League since November.
Though still an obvious threat, Doku has begun to frustrate with his lack of cutting-edge and refinement in possession compared to his teammates.
Doku is still young and clearly has the potential to develop under Guardiola but he has to start showing progress soon or he may well lose his spot in the side.
