Manchester City Kick Off Transfer Spree!

I am back! I am nearly finished with my exams and had plenty of time to write today, so instead of waiting until Sunday, I decided to publish this article now. After a very disappointing season with no trophies, Manchester City's new sporting director, Hugo Viana, wasted no time and has already signed four players. I will break down each transfer and give it a rating out of 10 based on the price and what each player will add to the squad. I will also be very active this month, as Manchester City will be participating in the Club World Cup, so expect articles for those matches as well.

From Milan to Manchester: Reijnders’ New Chapter

With Rodri injured for most of the season, Manchester City's midfield was exposed week after week. That presence to win the ball and dictate the tempo simply was not there, and it played a major role in the goals City conceded from open play and in transition. Opposing teams often bypassed Man City’s midfield entirely, with no one there to fight for the ball. The midfield battle often decides the outcome of a match, and City repeatedly lost that fight throughout the season. Rodri’s return next season will feel like a new signing in itself, but adding one of the best box-to-box midfielders to play alongside him will significantly strengthen the midfield. I believe this is a huge step forward in City’s push to challenge for the title once again.

Transfer Fee Paid: £46.3 million (according to Sky Sports)

Rating: 8.5/10

Reasoning

Reijnders is an ideal complement to Rodri for Man City. His dynamic style with his constant willingness to make runs and stretch the opposition will add a different dimension to City's midfield. He will definitely adapt well to the physicality of the Premier League as he is a tireless engine in the midfield rank. He also possesses very good receiving skills and can play in tight spaces, which will suit the combination style of Pep Guardiola. But, the Premier League is more tactically and physically demanding than the Serie A, so he may need time to fully settle in.

Ryan Cherki: De Bruyne’s Heir?

Cherki has been the talk of the footballing world recently after coming off the bench to light up that incredible 5-4 Nations League semi-final between France and Spain. He scored a stunning half-volley and delivered a beautiful assist. Already considered one of France’s most technically gifted players, his performances on big stages, especially when Lyon faced Manchester United in the Europa League quarter-finals, has drawn attention from fans all over the world. Some now claim he is one of the best players on the planet when the ball is at his feet.

At just the age of 21, this Frenchman’s ability to manipulate the ball, glide past defenders and pick the perfect pass to slice open defences marks him as a generational talent. With Florian Wirtz reportedly close to joining Liverpool for a Premier League record fee of around £120 million, many fans have started comparing the two, hinting at a rivalry in the coming season.

There have been rumours about Cherki’s negative attitude and lack of work rate, but I believe these are just fake news. Whenever I watch him, he works hard for his team and is a very serious, no-nonsense player who simply wants to get the job done. His professionalism at such a young age is remarkable and part of what makes him so special. With so many clubs interested in him, I am delighted that Cherki chose Manchester City and believes in the project.

Transfer Fee: £30 million (according to BBC Sports)

Rating: 9/10

Reasoning

Paying such a small fee for arguably one of the most promising talents in world football might be one of the biggest bargains in today’s transfer market. At such a young age, Cherki has already proven he can perform on Europe’s biggest stages. Honestly, he is still a bit raw and may lack the physicality needed to thrive immediately in the Premier League, but after pre-season, I believe he will be ready to hit the ground running. This signing is low risk with a very high potential ceiling.

City’s Latest Flying Wingback: Rayan Aït-Nouri

With Gvardiol excelling as Manchester City’s makeshift left-back, Nico O’Reilly was tasked with filling that role towards the end of last season. However, with Gvardiol looking exceptional in his natural position at centre-back, Pep Guardiola was keen to sign a natural left-back to solidify the defence. Reuniting with his former Wolves teammate Matheus Nunes will make the transition easier for Rayan Aït-Nouri, and if I were to pick any left-back in the Premier League to join Pep’s system, Aït-Nouri would be my choice.

His ball-carrying ability and eagerness to get forward make him an exciting player to watch. He also loves defending, excelling in 1v1 situations and often coming out on top. His passing is immaculate, consistently delivering excellent balls from the left flank. His ability to drive forward from deep positions will allow Manchester City to progress with greater speed and purpose. Additionally, his pace will reduce City’s vulnerability on the counter-attack, as his recovery runs help stop dangerous transitions when required.

Transfer Fee: £36.3 million (according to Sky Sports)

Rating: 8.5/10

Reasoning

Finding a 24-year-old player who is already proven in the Premier League is rare, but City have managed to secure this in-demand full-back for a reasonable fee. His ability to contribute on both ends of the pitch will make him very valuable. Although he may initially struggle to adapt to Pep’s demanding tactical approach, coming from Wolves, a team that is weaker than Man City, his strong work ethic should help him adjust quickly.

From Blues’ Bench to City’s Bench: Bettinelli’s New Chapter

With Manchester City legend Scott Carson leaving the club, it seems Hugo Viana aimed to sign the most affordable Premier League goalkeeper who had little to no game time this season, as insurance in case Ederson or Ortega get injured. I believe Bettinelli will primarily be a presence in the dressing room, serving as a role model for young players during training, given his prior experience at Fulham and Chelsea. He was not even included in the squad for the Club World Cup, which suggests City’s intention is clear: to have him for experience and to boost morale.

Transfer Fee: £2 million (according to Transfermarkt)

Rating: 6.5/10

Reasoning

Given that Manchester City signed Bettinelli for just around £2 million, this appears to be a very sensible and low-risk signing. At such a low cost, he provides valuable squad depth as an experienced Premier League backup goalkeeper. His experience at Chelsea and Fulham means he can also serve as a mentor and positive presence in the dressing room, which is important for team morale. While he is unlikely to feature much on the pitch, his role as reliable cover behind Ederson and Ortega is essential for a club competing on multiple fronts. Overall, this signing earns a solid 6.5 out of 10 for meeting City’s needs without overspending.