As Manchester City prepare for their pre-season tour of Japan and Korea, a story to watch for is who amongst the players won’t make the trip.
The future of several first-team players is in doubt at City. All eyes will be on who boards the flight to Asia.
Riyad Mahrez
One name not expected to make the trip is Riyad Mahrez. Al-Ahli has had an opening bid rejected for Mahrez, as reported by Fabrizio Romano. The champions are expecting a fresh bid from the Saudi Pro League outfit as a move to the Gulf state gets closer for the winger.
Understand Al Ahli submitted first bid for Riyad Mahrez on Monday night. £18m plus £5m add ons proposal has been rejected by Manchester City. 🚨🔵🇸🇦
City asked for £30m as correct fee to seal the deal.
Al Ahli, increasingly confident to get it done soon. pic.twitter.com/MUYsYuOVEl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 18, 2023
Kyle Walker
Kyle Walker is another player to watch for as City depart for Japan and Korea. Florian Plettenberg reported that the England international has agreed terms with Bayern Munich. With the German champions circling and talks between Guardiola and Walker reported, the full-back making the pre-season trip is one story to watch.
More on Kyle #Walker: He wants to have the conversation with #Guardiola by Tuesday at the latest.
➡️ His YES to Bayern is 100 % done and guaranteed as revealed on Friday
➡️ Personal terms are also agreed as he can sign until 2025 + 1 as reported.ℹ️ Bayern will start the… pic.twitter.com/5s9hlbnMj4
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 16, 2023
Aymeric Laporte and Bernardo Silva
Aymeric Laporte and Bernardo Silva are two others to watch for as City head off for their pre-season tour. Both players have been linked with moves away from the treble winners. As it stands there are no moves imminent for both players. Both should take their place with the travelling party for Asia.
Joao Cancelo
Joao Cancelo is a player to keep an eye on as City’s pre-season begins. The full-back has returned to City following a loan spell at Bayern Munich last season. He has reported for pre-season, and what the future holds for Cancelo is unknown at this time. The Portuguese international posted a cryptic message on social media as pre-season training has begun for the champions.
In Summary
As Manchester City head off for their pre-season tour, who boards the flight to Asia is another potential story to keep an eye on.
Who departs with the team may give a clue to the player’s futures with Pep Guardiola’s squad as City prepare for their treble defense next season.
