City Begin Pre-Season: Haalandđ Hungry, Phillips’ Uncertain Future, Academy Gets a Look-In
Manchester City’s pre-season kicked off on Monday, with a mix of familiar faces and fresh beginnings. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
Guardiola’s Euros Hangover Plan:
Fresh off their Euros victory, most of City’s European champions are being granted extended breaks. Only Gvardiol and Kovacic (Croatia’s group stage exit) will join the upcoming US tour. This focus on player recovery hints at a potential final season for Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, as he prioritizes long-term fitness for a potentially grueling campaign.
Haaland Sharpened for Battle:
Erling Haaland, free from international duty, is chomping at the bit. Social media posts show him meditating and relaxed, but his training session video suggests he’s ready to hit the ground running. With 80 potential games on the horizon, City needs a firing-on-all-cylinders Haaland to chase trophies on multiple fronts.
Phillips: A Player in Limbo:
Remember Kalvin Phillips? Back for pre-season after a disappointing loan spell at West Ham, his future remains uncertain. With no reported transfer interest, he’ll likely join the US tour unless a move materializes. Training alongside Rodri (another Euros champion) might be the best way to showcase his abilities for potential suitors.
Academy Lads Get Their Shot:
With a depleted squad, Guardiola will turn to the academy for reinforcements on the US tour. James McAtee (back from Sheffield United) and Callum Doyle (a loan sensation) have a chance to impress. Youngsters like Joel Ndala, Jacob Wright, Mahamadou Susoho, and Nico O’Reilly might also get a taste of senior team action.
The Road Ahead:
City’s pre-season is a blend of easing returning players back in, assessing returning loanees, and unearthing potential gems from the academy. The coming weeks will be crucial for fringe players like Phillips and McAtee to stake their claim for a spot in Guardiola’s squad for the upcoming season.
