As Manchester City enters a crucial phase of transformation, one of the biggest questions facing the club is how to replace iconic midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. With his contract set to expire and other key midfielders like Ilkay Gündogan and Bernardo Silva also poised to depart, newly appointed director of football Hugo Viana faces a high-stakes summer transfer window.
The End of an Era in City’s Midfield
De Bruyne’s announcement to leave City signals a symbolic and structural shift in Pep Guardiola’s midfield blueprint. The Belgian playmaker has long been central to City’s creative dominance, but the 2025 summer window brings both challenge and opportunity. Guardiola, known for tactical fluidity, must now transition toward more versatile midfield profiles capable of adapting to various roles.
Midfielders Who Could Replace De Bruyne
Florian Wirtz – Bayer Leverkusen
The 21-year-old German sensation is regarded as one of Europe’s most creative attacking midfielders. With 33 goals and 33 assists since the start of last season, Wirtz offers playmaking brilliance, positional intelligence, and finishing prowess. Valued at €140m, his signature would be a statement move—albeit a costly one. Competition from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid may complicate any potential deal.
Xavi Simons – RB Leipzig
At €70m, Simons represents a more economical option who still brings elite creativity (2.24 key passes per 90 minutes). A product of Barcelona’s La Masia, he suits Guardiola’s positional play and could quickly adapt to City’s system. With set-piece expertise and a high football IQ, Simons would offer both vision and versatility.
Nico Paz – Como
The 20-year-old Argentine has shined in Serie A, delivering seven assists and six goals. Known for tight-space control and long-range shots, Paz has drawn attention across Europe. City would need to move quickly to outbid Real Madrid’s buy-back clause. His €35m valuation makes him a high-upside investment.
Morgan Gibbs-White – Nottingham Forest
Gibbs-White offers a more unorthodox No. 10 profile, blending sharp passing with aggressive pressing. His five goals and seven assists highlight his attacking involvement, and his xA (expected assists) of 0.31 per 90 show his creativity. The big question: can he adjust to City’s patient, possession-based build-up?
Dejan Kulusevski – Tottenham Hotspur
Although unlikely due to contract length and Spurs’ reluctance to sell, the Swedish midfielder’s 2.6 key passes per 90 show his playmaking value. His adaptability across midfield and wing roles could make him a wildcard option if circumstances align.
Box-to-Box Options: Replacing Silva and Gündogan
Tijjani Reijnders – AC Milan
With 17 goals across club and country this season, Reijnders has evolved into an attacking powerhouse. At €50m, he offers high energy, shooting frequency (2.35 per 90), and a 90% pass completion rate. His two-way capabilities align well with City’s evolving tactical demands.
Conor Gallagher – Atlético Madrid
Gallagher’s £40m move to Atlético hasn’t delivered fireworks, but his work rate and versatility are undeniable. With 2.8 tackles per 90 and a knack for finding space, he could replicate Silva’s hybrid midfield role in Guardiola’s scheme.
Éderson – Atalanta
Éderson stands out as a defensive midfield anchor who complements Rodri. Known for his high stamina, positional awareness, and six recoveries per 90, he could restore the defensive balance once offered by Fernandinho. Though not a traditional Guardiola player, his profile adds grit and discipline to the mix.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Summer Ahead
Manchester City’s midfield overhaul is inevitable and complex. While losing Kevin De Bruyne marks the end of an era, it also opens the door to reinventing the engine room of one of football’s most tactical teams. Whether the club opts for proven stars like Wirtz or hidden gems like Paz, the rebuild must align with Guardiola’s philosophy—fluidity, intelligence, and adaptability.
Category: Football News, Transfer Rumors, Premier League
Tags: Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne, Pep Guardiola, Florian Wirtz, Xavi Simons, Transfer News, Premier League, Midfield Rebuild, Man City Transfers 2025, Football Rumors
