Pep Guardiola Delivers Stark Warning to Manchester City Bosses: "This Isn't Healthy"
Pep Guardiola has once again emphasized Manchester City's necessity to offload additional players before the summer transfer window closes, describing his current squad size as "unhealthy".
The Spanish manager made these comments following the Citizens' dominant 4-0 triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League's opening weekend. Erling Haaland netted twice, while recent acquisitions Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki also found the back of the net.
City haven't spent as extensively as Liverpool this summer, but they've remained busy in the transfer market. Alongside Reijnders and Cherki, the club has also secured James Trafford, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Sverre Nypan and Marcus Bettinelli.
Despite speculation linking Real Madrid star Rodrygo and Paris Saint-Germain keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with potential moves to the Etihad before September begins, City's primary window objective centers on player departures.
James McAtee, Yan Couto, Maximo Perrone, Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker have all been sold outright this summer. Meanwhile, Jack Grealish, Vitor Reis and Juma Bah have left on temporary deals.
Regarding his oversized roster, Guardiola informed journalists: "[It's] excessive -- too many individuals. I appreciate having squad depth for all competitions, but I refuse to strand players at home. It's unhealthy. You cannot foster positive energy or competitive atmosphere.
"Every player must believe they can contribute and participate. The club has understood this since last season, it's not breaking news, but we must deal with the current circumstances.
"Over the coming fortnight, discussions will occur between players and representatives to identify solutions," he continued.
Ederson and Savinho were omitted from Saturday's matchday roster amid widespread transfer rumors, though Guardiola indicated the duo's absence stemmed from alternative factors. Ederson has drawn attention from Turkish clubs, while Tottenham Hotspur are pursuing Savinho. City aren't forcing either player's exit, but will permit departures if they seek opportunities elsewhere.
Nottingham Forest, having already acquired McAtee, are also attempting to secure versatile defender Rico Lewis from Manchester.