Frank Christian
Manchester City is set to undertake significant changes in their squad next summer as Pep Guardiola aims to secure the team’s future.
Guardiola’s extension of his contract with City until the 2026/27 season marks an encouraging development for the reigning Premier League champions.
However, the team’s current performance raises alarms, evidenced by five straight losses in all competitions, the worst stretch in Guardiola’s coaching experience.
Although Guardiola believes this downturn is just a temporary setback, he recognizes the necessity for a squad overhaul, especially with several aging players in his lineup.
Both Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne, key midfielders, will see their contracts expire at the end of the season. There are concerns regarding the club’s commitment to renew De Bruyne’s contract due to his injury history.
Guardiola is also focusing on strengthening the defense, particularly in light of recent difficulties. Reports suggest that Bournemouth’s center-back Illia Zabarnyi is being considered, according to Football Insider.
Illia Zabarnyi: Contract Details, Transfer Fees, and Statistics
The Ukraine international Zabarnyi has become a vital player for Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth following his move from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2023.
He played in every Premier League match except for one in his inaugural full season in England, which is the 2023/24 edition, and has been a regular in the current season.
Having signed a contract extension this summer, the 22-year-old is bound to Bournemouth until 2028/29. His estimated transfer value is around £30 million ($38 million).
Nevertheless, reports suggest that Bournemouth might demand nearly 50% more than that amount if they consider selling him, potentially aiming to enhance other squad areas with the proceeds.
Zabarnyi is known as a reliable defender, skilled in man-marking and physical defending, and has managed to effectively neutralize Erling Haaland in their last two encounters.
