As Kevin De Bruyne’s influence wanes with age, Manchester City face a pivotal transition in midfield. Late October fixtures against top-half sides will test Phil Foden and new signings in high-stakes battles. This piece analyzes City’s midfield evolution, tactical shifts under Pep Guardiola, and whether they can maintain their title-contending rhythm.
The Belgian maestro’s departure to Napoli in summer 2025 marked the end of an era at the Etihad Stadium. After amassing 100 goals for City and winning six Premier League titles, De Bruyne’s absence has created a void that extends far beyond statistics. His 2024-25 campaign was hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 28 appearances with four goals and seven assists. The writing was on the wall when he announced his departure in April 2025, leaving City to scramble for suitable replacements.
Midfield Reinforcement
In response, City invested heavily in midfield reinforcements during the summer transfer window. Tijjani Reijnders arrived from AC Milan for £46.5 million, while Lyon’s creative spark Rayan Cherki cost £30.5 million. Both signings represent Guardiola’s attempt to replace De Bruyne’s unique blend of vision, technical ability, and goal-scoring threat from deep positions. For fans looking closely how these new additions will perform, sites like Vegas Insider offer comprehensive info on upcoming fixtures – click here for the latest odds and promotional opportunities.
The early returns have been promising. Reijnders announced his arrival with a man-of-the-match performance in City’s season opener against Wolves, scoring one goal and assisting two of Erling Haaland’s strikes in a 4-0 victory. The Netherlands international’s ability to drift between the lines and pick out dangerous passes immediately drew comparisons to his predecessor. Cherki, meanwhile, showcased his flair with a stunning debut goal off the bench, hinting at the creative solutions he might provide.
However, November’s fixtures present a significantly sterner test. City’s struggles against top-half opposition in 2024-25 were well-documented, with defeats to Tottenham, Brighton, and Liverpool exposing tactical vulnerabilities. The crushing 4-0 home loss to Spurs in November 2024 ended their 52-game unbeaten streak at the Etihad and highlighted their midfield frailties.
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Phil Foden’s Importance
Phil Foden’s evolution has become crucial to City’s success. After a disappointing start to the 2024-25 season, the England international found his form in a more central role, operating as the most advanced midfield player behind Haaland. His resurgence coincided with City’s improved results, contributing four goals across five matches during their strong finish to the campaign. The tactical shift from wide positions to a central No. 10 role has unlocked Foden’s potential, allowing him to utilize his close control and vision more effectively.
Guardiola’s tactical evolution reflects the changing personnel. The traditional box midfield that dominated during City’s treble-winning season has given way to a more dynamic 4-2-2-2 formation when Haaland was absent. This adaptation demonstrates the manager’s willingness to reinvent his approach, though it has also exposed defensive vulnerabilities during transitions.
The statistical evidence suggests cause for cautious optimism. City’s pressing intensity decreased significantly in 2024-25, with off-the-ball runs dropping from 160.6 per 90 minutes to 121.9. While this represents a fundamental shift in their playing style, the integration of athletic midfielders like Reijnders could restore some of their lost dynamism.
Upcoming Games
November’s examination will determine whether City’s midfield reconstruction can withstand Premier League pressure. The new signings have shown promising glimpses in pre-season and early competitive fixtures, but facing established top-half opposition presents a different challenge entirely. If Foden can maintain his newfound consistency in the No. 10 role while Reijnders and Cherki adapt to English football’s intensity, City may yet navigate this transition successfully.
The De Bruyne era has ended, but the foundations for a new midfield hierarchy are taking shape at the Etihad.
