Manchester City Confirms Three Players leaving On Free Transfer

Manchester City have confirmed the exits of Kevin De Bruyne, Scott Carson, and Tai Sodje following the expiry of their contracts, according to the Premier League’s latest free transfer report.

The departures come amid a transitional summer for Pep Guardiola’s side, who failed to win a major trophy last season for the first time since 2016. While Guardiola was quick to point out that City did win the Community Shield, there is growing urgency around reshaping the squad for 2025/26.

De Bruyne’s exit is the most high-profile. The Belgian playmaker, widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s finest midfielders, has signed a two-year deal with Serie A champions Napoli. Meanwhile, veteran goalkeeper Carson leaves after a six-year stint, and Sodje departs after graduating through the club’s Academy.

City have already signed Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Tijjani Reijnders this summer, in addition to four January arrivals. However, further outgoings are expected, with the futures of Ilkay Gundogan, Ederson, Mateo Kovacic, and Jack Grealish under scrutiny.

 FAQ

• Who are the confirmed departures?
  Kevin De Bruyne, Scott Carson, and Tai Sodje.
• What happens next?
  City will evaluate more exits and continue squad reduction to fit Guardiola’s preferences.
• Any new signings?
  Yes. Eight players have joined in 2024 so far across both transfer windows.

Conclusion

Manchester City’s summer reshuffle is well underway. While De Bruyne’s departure marks the end of a club-defining era, the focus now shifts to trimming the squad and preparing for a crucial new campaign.