# “Where could the best players of Man City end up if they are relegated?”

- URL: https://apitofinal.pt/en/internacional-en/where-could-the-best-players-of-man-city-end-up-if-they-are-relegated/
- Published: 2026-10-21T23:56:41+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-21T23:59:06+00:00
- Publisher: Apito Final (apitofinal.pt)
- Section: Internacional
- Tags: EFL, Erling Haaland, Juventus, Manchester City, Rayan Cherki, Zlatan Ibrahimović

## Article

The possibility of a drastic relegation for Manchester City is leading to intense speculation about the future of its key players. Pep Guardiola’s team is at a critical juncture in Premier League history, awaiting a verdict on the sanctions that may arise from allegations of financial irregularities. Recent reports suggest a heavy points deduction that, if confirmed, could guarantee the team’s relegation.

Interestingly, it appears that none of the City players’ contracts contain relegation clauses, which could lead to uncomfortable conversations with agents in the near future. It is almost impossible to imagine figures like Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki playing in the EFL next season, and the club’s big names may already be plotting their exits.

If the situation materializes, next summer could witness one of the largest exoduses of football stars from a single club since Juventus lost players like Zlatan Ibrahimović and Fabio Cannavaro in 2006, following the Calciopoli scandal. In this scenario, where could City’s top talents end up?

Gianluigi Donnarumma could be an option for Bayern Munich, which will need an elite goalkeeper with Manuel Neuer’s contract expiring. Ruben Dias, a quality center-back, would be a dream for Inter Milan, which could reunite him with Manuel Akanji and John Stones.

Marc Guehi could be a logical addition for Liverpool, especially with Virgil van Dijk’s contract set to expire next summer. On the other hand, Josko Gvardiol could bolster Barcelona’s defense, which has shown solidity but needs more defensive depth.

The young talents from City, such as Nico O’Reilly and Elliot Anderson, are also attracting attention, with Chelsea and Liverpool being potential destinations. Paris Saint-Germain seems like the ideal place for Rayan Cherki, while Enzo Fernández may struggle to find a club willing to take him after Real Madrid ruled out a transfer.

Phil Foden, for his part, appears destined to remain at Manchester City, while Jérémy Doku would be an interesting addition for Arsenal, which is looking to enhance the quality of its attack. With the situation constantly evolving, the question now is: what will be the impact of these movements on the transfer market and the upcoming Premier League season?