In light of the looming sanctions against Manchester City for financial fair play violations, a pertinent question arises: how might the trajectories of key figures at the club have unfolded without these transfers? Andrey Dyumin explores alternative paths for ten pivotal characters in the recent history of the club.
Alternative routes for the Etihad stars
Pep Guardiola — Manchester United: Back in 2012, Alex Ferguson had a conversation with the Spaniard, and three years later, the Red Devils were keen on hiring him to replace Louis van Gaal. But in a twist that shocked many, Guardiola opted for City instead.
David Silva — Chelsea: In the summer of 2010, Silva's agent confirmed talks with the London side. However, City swooped in with a more lucrative offer, as Roman Abramovich hesitated over the hefty price tag.
Sergio Aguero — Tottenham: Just six months before joining City, Spurs activated Aguero's release clause at £38.5 million. Unfortunately, the deal fell through due to tax issues raised by Atletico.
Yaya Toure — Chelsea: The Ivorian midfielder revealed he initially thought about a move to Manchester United, but Chelsea proved to be the real threat to City in the summer of 2010.
Erling Haaland — Manchester United: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was keen on signing the Norwegian during his time at Molde for a modest fee of £20 million, but United let the opportunity slip by.
Kevin De Bruyne — PSG: De Bruyne had offers from the Parisians and preliminary contacts with Bayern Munich but ultimately chose to join Manchester City.
John Stones — Chelsea: Jose Mourinho saw Stones as a future replacement for John Terry and made multiple inquiries to Everton. However, when Guardiola arrived at City in the summer of 2016, his interest quickly shifted.
Bernardo Silva — Manchester United: Mourinho was actively discussing the transfer of the Portuguese star when City snatched him just two days after the United boss had made some comments on the player.
Riyad Mahrez — Arsenal: The Algerian joined a long list of players that Arsene Wenger almost signed during his tenure at the Gunners.
Rodri — Bayern Munich: The Bavarians were aggressively pursuing the Spanish midfielder and were ready to activate his buyout, but Sergio Busquets' advice played a crucial role in Rodri choosing City.
(Note: Ederson was not mentioned as there seemingly weren’t any other clubs vying for his services.)
