Manchester City’s Silent Masterclass in the Transfer Window

Manchester City are often criticised for lavish spending on players, but have quietly orchestrated a highly successful 2024 summer transfer window. City have pulled in £145 million in player sales, with the potential for over £40 million more in future add-ons, whilst spending just £30 million. 

Brazilian winger Savinho, signed from City Football Group (CFG) club ESTAC Troyes, and he has already impressed fans. He looked sharp off the bench in City’s Community Shield win over Manchester United, and crucially scored his penalty in the shootout. His flair and creativity were on display in City’s Premier League wins over Chelsea and more recently Ipswich, where he provided an assist for Kevin De Bruyne. 

Additionally, the return of Ilkay Gündogan on a free transfer is excellent business. The versatile German midfielder, capable of playing both the 6 and 8 roles, addresses a key need for squad depth, particularly as Rodri was heavily relied on last season.

City struggled when Rodri was unavailable, and Gündogan is more than capable of covering the Spaniard. Without significant expenditure, City’s squad appears well-prepared for the long season ahead, boasting improved depth and positional flexibility. The likes of James McAtee can also be added into the mix, following some good pre season displays, but also 2 years of experience out on loan at Sheffield United. 

Outgoings Have Fuelled the Flame

The most notable outgoing transfer is Julián Álvarez’s move to Atletico Madrid for €75 million. However, City have also cashed in on João Cancelo for £21.2 million, Taylor Harwood-Bellis to Southampton for £20 million, Sergio Gomez to Real Sociedad for €9 million, and Tommy Doyle to Wolves for £5 million.

Additionally, Kalvin Phillips has been loaned out to Ipswich, while full-back Yan Couto has joined Borussia Dortmund on loan, with a permanent transfer likely next season.

There are also rumours that Matheus Nunes could be loaned out to Atletico Madrid, in order to facilitate the midfielder playing more, but no formal approach has been made as of yet. 

Manchester City’s Long-Term Vision is Clear to See

City’s transfer strategy reflects a long-term vision. Players are sold strategically, often with buy-back or sell-on clauses, or loaned out to gain more playing time if Guardiola doesn’t see them as essential to his immediate plans. 

In contrast, City’s recent financial prudence stands in stark comparison to the spending habits of other top clubs. Chelsea and Manchester United have splurged on transfers but have struggled to translate those investments into consistent on-field success. They also often fail to get a good financial return for these players when they move on. Arsenal, though spending heavily in recent windows, have finished runners-up to City in the last two seasons. 

City’s ability to maximise returns on player sales while maintaining squad depth and quality is a testament to their well-structured approach, setting them apart from their rivals.