A busy summer lies ahead for Manchester City with so many senior players linked with moves from the club. With Riyad Mahrez reportedly agreeing terms with Al-Ahli a spot on the wing may be up for grabs. Heading into pre-season there are opportunities for academy youngsters to stake their claim. Which ones are ready for a chance with the first team?
Oscar Bobb
Oscar Bobb is one of the first reported as getting a chance with the first team this pre-season. The young Norwegian playmaker has shone with City’s EDS side. City’s youngster has contributed 13 goals and 26 assists during his time with the City EDS side.
Happy birthday @OscarBobb2 ⚡️
Sit and enjoy a Manchester derby masterclass ; one of my favourite performances of the season.
🧊🧊🧊
— Umir (@umirf1) July 12, 2023
Bobb’s playing style is very similar to David Silva. He thrives in the space between midfield and up front. He can also play on a wing, where his opportunity may lie. With his technical ability he looks every bit a Pep Guardiola player. A big opportunity awaits for the youngster this pre season.
James McAtee
City’s young midfielder shone on loan at Sheffield United last season. He was a vital part of the Blades promotion to the Premier League. The experience he gained will hold him in good stead for the future. It’s reported by Simon Bajkowski of Manchester Evening News that City have rejected sizable bids for the midfielder. He appears a key part of City’s future.
The Salford Silva. 🌟 😛
All the goals and assists from James McAtee’s stellar 22/23 season. pic.twitter.com/BbmbsbjCHR
— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) June 1, 2023
McAtee possesses the technical ability to slot straight into first team football at City. With his ability on the ball, his passing ability and nose for a goal could all be attributes that earn him a spot in Pep Guardiola’s rotation. He has the ability to succeed at the Etihad, he just needs to seize the opportunity on offer this pre season.
Cole Palmer
While not a member of the EDS side last season, Palmer has learnt his trade while featuring with City’s first team. He is already a treble winner. With reports of Riyad Mahrez agreeing term with Al-Ahli, a spot on the wing may have opened up for Palmer to seize.
🔥🤓 If you’re going to ignore @Mahrez22 & @PhilFoden, you better make sure you finish the job. That’s exactly what teenager Cole Palmer did to net a FILTHY debut goal for @ManCity in the 6-1 @Carabao_Cup rout of @wwfcofficial | #MCIWYC Highlights 👉 https://t.co/uAawaE4E5h pic.twitter.com/ZQESs02cwg
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_AUS) September 22, 2021
City’s young winger was instrumental in England’s recent under 21 European Championship success. He showed the lessons he learnt last season have progressed his game. He has the ability to become a regular player in the treble winners squad.
Palmer has been linked with a loan move this summer. With reports of so many key players linked to leave City, Palmer may stay and fight for a spot after serving his apprenticeship the past couple of seasons.
Summary
There are plenty of talented youngsters ready and waiting for a first team chance at the champions. Bobb, McAtee and Palmer are three possible players ready to seize an opportunity if they are given a chance this pre season.
