Manchester City Faces Major Shake-Up After FIFA Club World Cup Exit

Manchester City, one of the most dominant forces in European football, is reeling from a shocking 4-3 extra-time defeat to Al-Hilal in the round of 16 at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, held in Orlando, Florida. The unexpected elimination, coupled with a reported £50 million financial blow, has prompted owner Sheikh Mansour to take drastic measures, announcing that five players will depart the club due to their underwhelming performances. This move has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, especially as one of the players is said to be a favorite of manager Pep Guardiola.

The loss to Al-Hilal, a Saudi Pro League side coached by former Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi, marked a historic moment as it was the first time an Asian club defeated a European team in an official FIFA tournament. Despite Manchester City’s perfect run in Group G, where they secured nine points with an impressive +11 goal difference, their campaign unraveled in a pulsating quarterfinal match. Al-Hilal’s Kalidou Koulibaly scored a decisive goal in extra time, sealing City’s fate and sparking celebrations across Saudi Arabia.

Sheikh Mansour, reportedly “very unhappy and embarrassed” by the defeat, particularly to a Saudi club, is said to be driving the decision to offload players. The financial implications are significant, with the club missing out on a potential $125 million in prize money, having already earned $54.3 million in the group stage. The loss has not only dented City’s coffers but also intensified scrutiny on the squad and Guardiola’s management, especially after a trophy-less 2024/25 season.

While the exact names of the five players set to leave remain undisclosed in official reports, speculation is rife that one of them is a key figure in Guardiola’s system, making the announcement particularly surprising. Posts on X have hinted at potential exits, with some suggesting that young star James McAtee, who is reportedly planning to leave permanently, could be among those departing. However, no official confirmation links him directly to this list. The inclusion of a Guardiola favorite adds intrigue, as the manager is known for his loyalty to certain players integral to his tactical vision, such as Bernardo Silva, who was a standout despite the loss.

Guardiola, who recently signed a two-year contract extension, expressed disappointment but also gratitude to his players for their efforts. He highlighted the challenges of the tournament, including the intense Florida heat and injuries, such as the ankle injury to promising Argentine midfielder Claudio Echeverri, who is sidelined for up to three weeks. Despite the setback, Guardiola emphasized progress made during the tournament, particularly praising Bernardo Silva’s resurgence. However, the Spaniard’s comments on the “high levels” of competition at the Club World Cup suggest he acknowledges the growing challenge posed by non-European teams.

The fallout from this defeat extends beyond the pitch. Sheikh Mansour’s embarrassment is compounded by the geopolitical rivalry between Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia, with Al-Hilal’s victory being celebrated as a significant achievement for the Saudi Pro League. This has added pressure on City to regroup ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season. The club’s hierarchy is now faced with the task of rebuilding a squad capable of reclaiming domestic and international glory.

As Manchester City prepares for a break before returning to training, the focus will shift to the transfer market. The departure of five players, including a key figure, signals a bold restructuring effort. Fans and analysts alike await further details on who these players are and how their exits will shape the future of a club accustomed to success. For now, the Etihad Stadium braces for a period of uncertainty and transformation.