Pep Guardiola has now won his first league title in England but Manchester City are far from a team that can consistently compete with the best in Europe. There are quite a few roles in the squad that need to be improved upon this summer and the manager is ready to spend big yet again on some of the finest stars in Europe.
One name exciting City fans is that of Kylian Mbappe.
FFP Rules Could Hand Mbappe To City:
French giants PSG spent big on Neymar Jr last summer and also signed Mbappe on an initial loan move from AS Monaco and though they have lifted the league title, their massive spending might now come back to haunt them. They are reportedly struggling to meet their FFP requirements after the two purchases and might be forced to sell either of the superstars this summer.
And reports from England claim that Manchester City are ready to take advantage of this situation and are looking to land Mbappe this summer. He could cost around £167m but is he the right man for City?
Mbappe And His Numbers:
At just 19, the French striker has now won the Ligue 1 title with two different teams and has already established himself as one of the best in the game at the moment. He is easily the most exciting youngster on display in Europe and his return of 19 goals and 11 assists in 37 starts in all competitions shows that he is ready to take on even the best in Europe.
Playing for PSG, Mbappe has shown great maturity this season, taking on the responsibilities of the side and is clearly heading towards a world-class label. He is a crucial part of Didier Deschamps’ France squad travelling to Russia later this year and will probably walk into every top team in the world.
He can play as a striker or as a support striker and though is not that strong yet, has mastered the art of hold up play. He has quick feet and is full of skill and feints, making him hard to mark. He is adept at dribbling out of tough spots and is slowly improving his vision in the final third.
He is a genuine goal-scoring threat and will be a huge coup for City, who will then turn into one of the best attacks in Europe.
But Do They Really Need Him?
Sergio Aguero may no longer be a long-term option while Gabriel Jesus has his own limitations. The Argentine cannot start every game next season and Jesus is not really ready to lead a club to glory in Europe. This is what has turned Guardiola’s attention towards Mbappe.
The Spaniard wanted the teenager even before he joined PSG and will jump at a chance to sign him this summer. But spending insane money on him will mean that City cannot spend big on improving other areas of the squad, which could be a disaster.
The Citizens need at least one first-team midfielder and a few backups for multiple roles in the first team. They will have to bring in more than one player, and the purchase of Mbappe will restrict them financially.
PSG also will not want to let him go and might sell other stars to fall in line with FFP so City’s chances of signing Mbappe are really slim. But his signature will make a huge statement. Do you think City should spend big on the 19-year old?
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored