Man City’s Transfer Guru Txiki Begiristain Faces Ultimate Test Amid Injury Crisis
Txiki Begiristain has long shown his genius in the transfer market at Manchester City. But now, as the Blues find themselves with a depleted squad heading into a grueling stretch of games, his strategy will be put to the ultimate test. With six key players sidelined, City’s tight-knit squad faces unprecedented challenges.
Pep Guardiola, with Begiristain’s backing, has always favored a smaller, highly versatile squad over the extensive, specialized rosters some critics believe City have at their disposal. Anyone following the team closely knows City’s success has been rooted in relying on adaptable players who can cover multiple roles rather than having a specialist for every position.
This isn’t the first time City’s transfer strategy has faced a tough test. Back in 2019, following Vincent Kompany’s departure and Aymeric Laporte’s injury, City was forced to rely on a center-back pairing of Nicolas Otamendi and an out-of-position Fernandinho. That season, City also endured injuries to Leroy Sane, Ederson, and others, resulting in their only missed Premier League title in seven years.
After the latest international break, however, City’s approach is being stretched to its limits. With only 15 fit outfield players, they face seven games over 21 days, five of which are away. The absence of stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, and Rodri – who’s out for the season – means every player will need to be at their best.
Now, with injuries piling up again, City’s remaining players will have to rise to the occasion. Fortunately, the likes of Rico Lewis and Manu Akanji have adapted to multiple roles, while Phil Foden and Matheus Nunes are hitting form at just the right time. Guardiola will likely need most players to switch roles during games, as he’s praised their versatility often – aside from Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, and Rodri, who largely stick to their core roles.
With Begiristain set to leave City at the end of the season, he’ll hope this squad can hold up and secure yet another Premier League title, proving the resilience of his transfer approach. And should City emerge from this period unscathed, the age-old stereotype about their so-called endless resources will ring hollow – showing that a smaller, adaptable squad can be just as powerful as a larger one, especially when faced with adversity.
