The Calm Before the Storm: Manchester City’s Trophyless Wake-up Call

As the 2024–25 season ended, one of the most unexpected storylines in world football unfolded: Manchester City finished the campaign without a major trophy. This stunned fans across the globe, especially after the club had dominated the Premier League for four consecutive seasons. While they did manage to win the Community Shield at the start of the season, that achievement barely moved the needle for a club with standards as high as City’s. For a team accustomed to collecting league titles and competing deep into every competition, lifting only the Community Shield felt like a major disappointment. There was, of course, important context behind their underwhelming season. Rodri, who had just come off a Ballon d'Or–winning campaign, suffered a season-ending injury against Arsenal in September. His absence was a massive blow. Widely considered the most important player in Pep Guardiola’s system, Rodri’s injury disrupted the team’s balance and rhythm. Without him, City never quite looked like themselves and consistently struggled to find their best form. Despite reaching the FA Cup final, they fell short with a 1–0 loss to Crystal Palace. Still, there were a few positives. City finished third in the Premier League, securing a spot in next season’s Champions League. In what many consider a down year, Manchester City remains a top destination for world-class talent because, at the end of the day, they are still City.

Looking ahead, the club is already making moves to strengthen the squad and return to the top. Their first major target is Rayan Cherki, a highly talented attacking midfielder known for his creativity, dribbling, and flair. Still just 21, Cherki has been one of Ligue One’s most exciting young players and has the potential to become world-class under Guardiola’s guidance. City is also focusing on bolstering its defense, particularly in the fullback positions. Tino Livramento, who has impressed with his dynamism and defensive intelligence at Newcastle, could bring fresh energy to the right side of defense. On the left, Rayan Aït-Nouri has emerged as a standout for the Wolves, combining defensive solidity with a willingness to join the attack, traits that fit perfectly into City’s system. Lastly, City has already secured the signing of Tijjani Reijnders, a composed and technically gifted midfielder who played a pivotal role at AC Milan. His ability to control the tempo, progress the ball, and contribute in both directions will provide valuable depth and allow City to manage the load on a player like Rodri more effectively.

Now, when it comes to the players who are still at City, there are a few who will need to step up and reach even greater heights next season. Players like Phil Foden and Omar Marmoush will be crucial if City wants to return to their winning ways. Foden, a fan favorite and former PFA Player of the Year, did not have the standout season many expected from him this year. Still, class is permanent. He has all the tools to bounce back, and City fans will be hoping Pep Guardiola continues to believe in him. If Pep gives him the freedom and confidence he needs, Foden can be a game-changer once again. Marmoush is another exciting name to watch. His versatility, speed, and ability to stretch defenses make him a valuable asset, especially in a squad that thrives on movement and creativity in the final third. This could be the season where he takes on a larger role and becomes a more consistent attacking threat.

One player who looks poised for a breakout year is Joško Gvardiol. Naturally, a center-back, Gvardiol, spent much of the season playing as a left-back due to tactical needs. However, with the potential arrival of Aït-Nouri, he could finally return to his preferred position in central defense. Toward the end of the season, his partnership with Rúben Dias began to click, showing signs of a dominant pairing that could anchor City’s backline for years to come, and of course, the return of Rodri is going to feel like a brand new signing. His presence in midfield changes everything, bringing control, leadership, and balance back to the squad. Once he is back to full fitness and rhythm, City’s midfield will begin to tick again, and that should worry every team in the Premier League. However, once Manchester City finds its flow, history has shown that the rest of the league often suffers the consequences. If this squad stays healthy and motivated, non-City fans might need to brace themselves because the storm could be coming back stronger than ever.