Manchester City Defensive Duo Expected to Depart in 2026 as Succession Plans Take Shape
Manchester City are reportedly preparing for a significant defensive reshuffle in the summer of 2026, with Pep Guardiola and club executives anticipating the departures of two senior centre-backs as long-term replacements are identified.
According to emerging reports, key contract situations are driving internal planning at the Etihad Stadium. Both John Stones and Nathan Aké are increasingly viewed as potential exits, as City assess durability, availability, and future squad balance.
Stones, whose contract expires in 2026, has endured an injury-hit period over the last 18 months. The 31-year-old has struggled to maintain continuity and is currently sidelined with a leg injury sustained in early December. His situation has become more complicated following further defensive setbacks suffered by Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.
Aké, meanwhile, has played a prominent role since the turn of the year and remains highly valued by Guardiola for his versatility and tactical reliability. However, the Dutch defender has been linked with a possible exit amid concerns over his long-term role and international prospects ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
Manchester City’s defensive depth has been stretched to its limits. Dias remains sidelined for several more weeks, while Gvardiol is expected to face a lengthy recovery after undergoing surgery on his right leg following a tibial fracture sustained against Chelsea.
Although Aké was believed to be assessing his club future ahead of the January window, a move to a lower-placed Premier League side is not understood to appeal to the four-time league winner. Guardiola has previously stated that Stones’ future will be evaluated based on his availability and minutes across recent seasons.
Despite Aké being under contract until 2027, The Athletic’s Sam Lee reports that internal expectations point towards both Stones and Aké leaving the club in the summer of 2026. The report also suggests that Max Alleyne, the 20-year-old centre-back recently recalled from loan, could now remain with the first-team setup as part of the succession plan.
City’s forward planning has already accelerated. Following the arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, attention has returned sharply to the defensive market, with Crystal Palace and England centre-back Marc Guéhi emerging as a priority target.
Sources indicate that City are open to signing a defender during the current window to make an immediate impact — effectively replacing either Stones or Aké ahead of their eventual departure — while Alleyne could be groomed to succeed the other internally.
There is, however, an awareness that Guéhi may prefer to remain at Palace until the summer. The 25-year-old would then be out of contract, positioning himself for a substantial signing-on bonus, a factor believed to weigh heavily on his decision-making.
Despite that possibility, Manchester City are prepared to test Palace’s resolve with a formal bid. Guéhi is thought to be available for a fee in excess of £35 million, should Palace agree to negotiate before the end of the window.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which Manchester City defenders are expected to leave?
John Stones and Nathan Aké are both expected to depart in the summer of 2026, according to reports.
Why is John Stones’ future uncertain?
Stones has struggled with injuries over the past 18 months and is approaching the end of his contract, prompting City to reassess his long-term role.
Is Nathan Aké leaving immediately?
No. Aké remains under contract until 2027, but reports suggest he may be part of a planned defensive transition.
Who could replace them?
Marc Guéhi is a leading external target, while Max Alleyne is viewed as a potential internal successor.
Will City sign a defender in January?
City are considering a January move for a centre-back to address immediate needs and ease the transition ahead of 2026.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s expectation that John Stones and Nathan Aké could leave in 2026 reflects a proactive, long-term approach to squad management. With Marc Guéhi identified as a potential immediate upgrade and Max Alleyne emerging internally, the club are laying foundations early — ensuring defensive continuity even as a new cycle approaches under Pep Guardiola.
