In the recent fixtures, Manchester City has quietly regained its form, remaining unbeaten in five consecutive league matches and securing victories in three of them. This has significantly improved their position on the Premier League table, bringing them within striking distance of returning to the top four. Even compared to the league leaders, Guardiola's team is only 12 points behind. Considering Manchester City's "epic" performances in the second half of previous seasons, it is not impossible for them to make a strong comeback if their competitors falter. At the same time, in order to achieve their goal of a comeback, Manchester City has also shown remarkable efficiency in their transfer market acquisitions.
Three signings have been finalized since the transfer window opened. Manchester City's transfer operations have demonstrated a "steady, accurate, and fierce" approach. They first secured the young central defender Kusano from Lorient, who stands at only 1.86 meters tall but possesses excellent defensive awareness and can play multiple positions including right-back and defensive midfield, significantly enhancing the depth of Manchester City's midfield and defense. This transfer has already been officially announced. Meanwhile, Manchester City quickly secured Vitor Roos from Palmeiras. The Brazilian U17 international has established himself as a key player this season and is considered one of the most promising players in world football. Subsequently, Manchester City also acquired Malmoosh, for which they paid a transfer fee of 80 million euros. This makes him the "top signing" of the transfer period so far. While most major clubs are still waiting to make moves, Manchester City's speed in acquiring talent is truly impressive.
While making new signings, Manchester City has also begun to clear out surplus players within the squad. In defense, Kyle Walker will be the first player to leave Manchester City during this transfer period. The English veteran experienced a noticeable decline in form in the first half of the season, struggling to keep up with the pace of the Premier League in terms of both offensive involvement and defensive efficiency. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Kyle Walker has reached an agreement with AC Milan, who will sign him on loan with an option to buy. AC Milan will initially pay 1 million euros for Kyle Walker, with the option to purchase him for 4 million euros at the end of the loan period. If the buyout clause is activated, Kyle Walker will receive a new contract worth 4 million euros per year for two years at San Siro.
Similarly to Kyle Walker, who is almost certain to leave, Bernardo Silva's future at Manchester City looks uncertain. Especially during the initial to mid-season fixtures, due to a general downturn in the attacking front, Guardiola made many adjustments and attempts to the lineup, with Bernardo Silva playing in various positions including winger, attacking midfielder, central midfielder, and even defensive midfield. Objectively speaking, compared to his peak performance, the Portuguese international's form has declined, mainly reflected in reduced running ability, insufficient coverage area, and decreased dribbling ability in attack. These declines further highlight his physical disadvantages, making it difficult for him to play a key role in Guardiola's tactical system as he did before.
According to MEN, with the team deciding to rebuild the squad, the Manchester City management has not included the thirty-year-old Bernardo Silva in their future plans. Starting from this transfer period, they will listen to offers for Bernardo Silva. Considering that Bernardo Silva has always had thoughts of leaving, with Manchester City agreeing to open the transfer door for him, the departure of this midfield "workhorse" is imminent.
Additionally, in terms of signings, Manchester City supporters are delighted as they appear close to completing a "grand slam." According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City has reached an agreement with Juma Ba, who plays for Valladolid. The 18-year-old Juma Ba stands at 1.95 meters tall and has performed outstandingly this season, averaging 2.4 successful headers and 5 clearances per game, ranking high in La Liga. It is reported that after signing Juma Ba, Manchester City will temporarily loan out this talented "aerial dominator" central defender to Lorient. (Images sourced from the internet; please contact us for removal if there is any infringement.)