Nico Gonzalez in action for Manchester City in 2025 at the Club World Cup

Man City Transfer News: Gonzalez stays as Walker era ends

John William Last updated: Jul 9, 2025, 6:05 pm
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Image: IMAGO / NurPhoto

The transfer window has kicked off with a wave of speculation around Manchester City. From Nico Gonzalez exit rumours to Kyle Walker’s departure, it’s clear that Pep Guardiola is planning a careful reshuffle — not a fire sale.

Gonzalez Going Nowhere – Despite Exit Reports

Over the weekend, reports suggested Nico Gonzalez was set to leave Manchester City just five months after signing. Some claimed the midfielder had been offered to clubs by his agent, while others said City were ready to cash in.

But those claims have now been firmly denied.

“City sources say neither version is true and that the Spanish midfielder is in their plans for the coming season.” — The Athletic

The 22-year-old remains part of Guardiola’s midfield evolution, with insiders saying he’ll get more chances next season. Gonzalez is expected to stay and compete for minutes in a more transitional City setup.

Kyle Walker Departs for Burnley

A more concrete story is Kyle Walker’s exit to newly promoted Burnley. After eight incredible seasons under Guardiola, the 34-year-old right-back has left with full mutual respect.

  • Eight years at City
  • Trophy haul includes 6x Premier League titles
  • Key role in inverted full-back revolution

His departure marks the end of an era, but also opens up a gap at right-back — one City may or may not fill immediately.

Fringe Players & Loans: Squad Still in Transition

City’s transfer work is far from done. A number of loans and fringe sales are in the pipeline:

  • Claudio Echeverri and Vitor Reis expected to go out on loan
  • James McAtee and Jack Grealish both likely departures after missing the Club World Cup
  • Ilkay Gundogan was spotted in Turkey, but it turned out to be a family holiday, not a transfer tease

City sources say they’re “not especially close” to finalising the squad — but a couple of exits will bring things into sharper focus.

Goalkeeper Watch: Ederson & Ortega Uncertain

There’s noise in the goalkeeping department, too.

Ederson insists he’s staying, but faced online criticism after City’s early Club World Cup exit
Stefan Ortega admitted he’s open to a move for more playing time

“That is probably more of a possibility than Ederson going.” — The Athletic

Right-Back Problem Still Unsolved

City continue to explore options at right-back following Walker’s departure. Denzel Dumfries has been linked, but sources suggest those reports are overstated.

Still, Guardiola wants cover and competition on the flanks — just not at any price.

City’s Summer Squad Situation (As of July 6)

Position Status
Right-back Vacant after Walker exit
Goalkeeper Ederson uncertain, Ortega could leave
Midfield Gonzalez staying, McAtee & Gundogan uncertain
Forwards No key departures yet

Analyst Verdict

Kyle Walker’s exit makes emotional headlines, but it’s the quiet retention of Gonzalez that shows City’s real direction. Pep’s planning another squad evolution — not a revolution. Expect smart sales, selective buys, and a sharper, younger core heading into 2025.

Key Insights

  • Nico Gonzalez staying despite exit rumours
  • Kyle Walker joins Burnley in emotional farewell
  • City monitoring Ederson and Ortega futures
  • Grealish & McAtee expected to depart
  • Right-back position unresolved

What’s Next for City?

Expect movement soon — especially with Ortega, McAtee and Grealish. And if a bargain right-back becomes available, Guardiola could pounce.


Should City go big for a right-back — or trust in internal options? Tell us your ideal signing below!

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