Sheikh Mansour Announces List of 5 Players to Leave Manchester City After Club World Cup Failure – Pep Guardiola’s Favorite Included
In the aftermath of Manchester City’s shocking elimination from the FIFA Club World Cup, tensions appear to be running high within the club’s hierarchy. In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, club owner Sheikh Mansour has publicly revealed a list of five players who are set to depart the Etihad this summer — and one of them is reportedly a favorite of manager Pep Guardiola.
The List Is Out – Major Changes Coming
While the names have yet to be officially confirmed by the club, close sources indicate that the five players targeted for departure include a mix of underperforming veterans and fringe players, as well as one surprise name who has been a regular under Guardiola in recent seasons.
According to reports, the list includes:
- Kalvin Phillips – Struggled for minutes since arriving from Leeds.
- Sergio Gómez – Hasn’t lived up to expectations as a backup fullback.
- Stefan Ortega – Likely to leave in search of regular playing time.
- Jack Grealish – A shocking inclusion, believed to be under scrutiny after a dip in form.
- João Cancelo – Currently on loan and not expected to return to Guardiola’s plans.
Pep Guardiola Caught Off Guard?
The most surprising name on the list is Jack Grealish, who has long been defended by Pep Guardiola despite criticism over his form and consistency. The English winger, signed for a record fee, has had flashes of brilliance but has struggled to justify his price tag with consistent performances. Insiders say Pep was not entirely in favor of Grealish’s departure, but club leadership overruled him, citing the need to “refresh the squad and reduce wage costs.”
Sheikh Mansour Sends a Message
Sheikh Mansour, who rarely makes public football statements, reportedly expressed his disappointment with the Club World Cup performance and emphasized the need for a strategic rebuild to maintain Manchester City’s place at the top of European football.
“This is not a punishment, but a necessary evolution. We must remain competitive at all levels,” he was quoted as saying during a private meeting with board members.
Rebuild Mode Activated
With City now facing a mini-transition period, attention will turn to who might replace the departing players. Names like Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, and Alphonso Davies have been linked to the club in recent weeks, signaling that a new generation of stars could soon arrive at the Etihad.
Guardiola, while reportedly surprised by some of the decisions, is expected to adapt and embrace the challenge, focusing on reshaping his squad with younger, more dynamic options heading into the next season.
Final Thought:
The post-Club World Cup shake-up at Manchester City marks a significant turning point in the club’s modern era. With even Pep Guardiola’s trusted players now seemingly expendable, it’s clear that no one is untouchable — and that Sheikh Mansour is fully prepared to make bold decisions to keep City at the top.
