Pep Guardiola has admitted Manchester City’s squad size is 'not healthy' after opening the Premier League season with a 4-0 victory against Wolves. Erling Haaland netted twice, while new signings Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki also scored, but Guardiola’s biggest concern was the number of players in his squad. With Ederson and Savinho linked with exits, he urged the club to trim numbers.
Guardiola warns Man City squad size is "not healthy"Ederson and Savinho linked with possible summer exitsCity target tighter squad ahead of key Arsenal clashFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Manchester City cruised to an opening-day win at Molineux thanks to Haaland’s double and Premier League debut goals for Reijnders and Cherki. James Trafford impressed on his first start in goal, while former Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri also caught the eye. But despite the result, Guardiola highlighted the need to reduce the size of his squad, with some players already in talks over moves.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT GUARDIOLA SAID
Speaking to the media, Guardiola said about the squad size: "[It's] too much — too many people. I like a deep squad to compete in all competitions, but I don't want to leave players at home. It's not healthy. You cannot create a good vibe or atmosphere to compete. Everyone has to feel they can play and help. The club has known it since last season; it's not news, but the situation is what it is. In the next two weeks, people will talk with players and agents to find a solution."
Getty/GOALTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Ederson’s future has been under the spotlight this summer amid links to Galatasaray, though Guardiola maintains he is still City’s No.1. Meanwhile, Savinho, who impressed on loan at Girona last season, has also attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur. Guardiola’s comments suggest City are preparing to sanction departures to balance the squad.
WHAT NEXT FOR MAN CITY?
The eight-time Premier League champions will now focus on offloading players before the transfer window closes, with Ederson and Savinho among the most likely to move. Guardiola wants a tighter group to maintain morale and ensure everyone plays a role across competitions. On the pitch, City turn their attention to Tottenham Hotspur in next weekend's clash.
