Football NewsDaily Mail FootballUnverified sourceVia Jack Gaughan· 6 Aug 2026
Man City's New Era: Four Cornerstones Sign, Midfield Overhaul Looms
As Guardiola's era fades, City lock in young stars and brace for Rodri's possible exit.
Manchester City
team
New deals
Doku, Gvardiol, Foden, Khusanov signed fresh terms
Ages
Gvardiol and Doku 24, Foden 26, Khusanov 22
Rodri interest
Barcelona and Real Madrid rival for his signature
What happened. Manchester City are futureproofing their squad, with Jeremy Doku the latest to sign a new five-year contract, joining Gvardiol, Foden, and Khusanov as cornerstone players for the post-Guardiola era.
- Director Hugo Viana and boss Enzo Maresca identified these four as future leaders.
- Rodri's potential departure to Spain would halve City's leadership group.
- Gvardiol and Foden have publicly offered to take captaincy roles.
“I’m happy here. I don’t want to leave and I think the club wants me to stay.”
— Nico Gonzalez
City are reshaping their squad under new management, with a focus on youth and continuity.
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