Manchester City’s biggest need in the transfer market stood out against Club Brugge | OneFootball

It has stood out like a sore thumb for months but Manchester City’s biggest need in the transfer market was once again on full display against Club Brugge last night. Although Manchester City picked up a 3-1 win over the Belgian side last night they simply must sign a midfielder. If they don’t we can see what will lie in wait for Pep Guardiola’s side in the next round of the Champions League and across the remainder of this season. There is no other way to put it after last night’s match.

Club Brugge were able to cut through Manchester City’s midfield last night at the Etihad. The fact that the world champions midfield just don’t have the legs to get back defensively stood out last night. It has stood out for large portions all season in all honesty. The loss of Rodri to injury has shown Manchester City’s deficiencies and frailties. Simply put, if they don’t sign a midfielder during the final days of the transfer window, it’s hard to see how City’s current midfield could stand up to Real Madrid or Bayern Munich. They would also face an almighty battle to secure Champions League football if that need isn’t addressed.

Pep Guardiola hit the nail on the head when he spoke after his team’s win. He explained that his team is now old and that is just the facts of the situation. Guardiola told the media: “We are an old team; Kevin [De Bruyne] is 34, [Ilkay] Gundo is 33, Mateo [Kovacic], and we don’t have replacements, so they play a lot of minutes. That’s why we’re so grateful for the effort Gundo has done, and Kova, and of course, Kevin to come back as quick as possible – that is the reality.”

Manchester City have to sign a midfielder in the coming days. Whether that’s Ederson, Douglas Luiz, or someone else entirely, they simply have to. The way Club Brugge was able to cut through City’s midfield on the break further highlighted a point that has been known for some time. Jack Gaughan has reported for the Daily Mail that City are still on the hunt for a midfielder. That hunt must be successful or the second half of the season will be a struggle for Pep Guardiola’s side.