Pep Guardiola has made a massive difference since arriving at Manchester City three years ago. His first season at the Etihad Stadium went trophyless, but there were signs of massive improvement for City. The Spaniard’s philosophy was clear; he has slowly but steadily has got rid of the entire deadwood at the club and replaced them with younger, hungrier talents.
And as things stand, Guardiola has helped Manchester City win back-to-back Premier League titles. The Spanish tactician’s team are on course for an unprecedented treble of domestic trophies this season ahead of the FA Cup final against Watford.
But, the Cityzens were knocked out of the Champions League on away goals at the quarter-final stage by Tottenham this term, after falling to Liverpool at the same round last time around.
The Champions League trophy has eluded Guardiola at City yet again and that could see the Mancunian club look for reinforcements in the summer transfer window. One of the important areas the City manager should look at this summer is the midfield, with Ilkay Gundogan already refusing a new contract at the club.
Gundogan has been one of City’s most important players in their title triumph this season, especially due to Fernandinho’s recurrent injury problems. But he is out of contract at the end of next season and talks over a new deal have stalled and unless that changes quickly, City may have to consider cashing in on the German this summer.
Also, with Fernandinho and David Silva ageing, Guardiola has to plan a massive revamp of his midfield. That said, one player City must look at is Borussia Dortmund midfield anchor Julian Weigl, who was heavily linked with a move to the Etihad last summer.
Julian Weigl, 23, was once regarded as one of the biggest stars of German football after his emergence at 1860 Munich. His performances at 1860 Munich saw him get picked up by Dortmund in 2015 and at the Signal Iduna Park as he established himself as one of the best young midfielders.
However, in the last 18 months or so, the 23-year-old’s stock has gone down. Injuries and lack of form has stalled Weigl’s career at Dortmund, with the 23-year-old managing just managing 25 and 17 league appearances in the past two seasons.
Perhaps, a move away from Dortmund will help the five-cap Germany international revive his career. That being said, Manchester City must reignite their interest and sign Weigl this summer.
Weigl will boost City’s options in midfield, whilst being a potential long-term replacement for Fernandinho. An excellent passer of the ball, the 23-year-old combines his technical qualities with his work rate, energy and vision to dictate the tempo of games.
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He is a clever player, known for his uncanny ability to pick the right passes in the offensive third of the pitch. All in all, Weigl would be a fantastic fit in Pep Guardiola’s system.
Weigl is incredibly talented and has a long way to go before he hits prime, which is why Manchester City should take full advantage right now.