Pep's refreshed squad starts Club World Cup journey

Manchester City are set to make their competitive return just 24 days after concluding their 2024-25 Premier League campaign, as they kick off their Club World Cup journey in the United States.

Following a disappointing season by their high standards, chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has framed this tournament as the beginning of a fresh chapter rather than an extension of last season.

New Beginnings for City

Pep Guardiola's squad will relish the opportunity to defend their global title, won in Saudi Arabia two years ago, despite the quick turnaround. Guardiola emphasized the tournament's significance: "The World Cup represents an incredible opportunity to showcase our identity through the sport we love, bringing together supporters from across continents."

The expanded 32-team format signals a "new era" for football according to FIFA president Gianni Infantino - a sentiment that equally applies to this evolving City squad.

Squad Overhaul: Major Signings and Departures

City have invested over £100m to strengthen their squad for the tournament, making them strong favorites against Moroccan champions Wydad AC in their opening match.

Key changes include:

• Midfield reinforcements: £43m signing Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan and £30.45m acquisition Rayan Cherki from Lyon
• Defensive boost: £31m left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves
• January additions: Nico Gonzalez, Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis and Abdukodir Khusanov for £200m
• Returning stars: Ballon d'Or winner Rodri and Oscar Bobb from injury

Brazilian winger Savinho welcomed the new signings: "The quality reinforcements are integrating well into our settled group. I'm excited to play alongside them."

Squad Selection Challenges

With 34 first-team players and only 27 selected for the Club World Cup, Guardiola faces tough decisions. Notable omissions include Kyle Walker, Kalvin Phillips and Jack Grealish, all likely to depart if suitable deals materialize.

Captain Bernardo Silva confirmed his commitment: "Despite having options, my choice remains to stay at Manchester City."

Backroom Changes and Training Intensity

Guardiola has revamped his coaching staff, bringing in former Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders and former defender Kolo Touré. Training sessions in Florida have been intense, with Lijnders demanding "movement, quality and speed" from players.

Guardiola revealed: "I consulted Jurgen Klopp about bringing in Lijnders, who gave his full endorsement to the move."

Key Players and Tournament Prospects

The return of Rodri provides a massive boost, with new signing Cherki acknowledging: "Seeing Rodri win the Ballon d'Or here shows what's possible at Manchester City."

With stars like Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias and Silva available, City are among the tournament favorites. Their Group G performance, particularly the crucial match against Juventus on June 26th, will determine whether they face a potential last-16 showdown with Real Madrid or an easier path to the latter stages.

Pick your preferred Manchester City starting XI from the current squad.