Sam Lee Confirms Nico Gonzalez to Stay at Manchester City Despite Exit Rumours

Manchester City midfielder Nico Gonzalez will remain at the Etihad Stadium for the 2025/26 season, according to new clarification from The Athletic’s Sam Lee. This comes after recent speculation indicated that the 23-year-old could be on his way out of the club this summer.

Gonzalez, who joined City from Porto in January for £50 million, provided cover during Rodri’s ACL injury and featured in various matches throughout the spring. However, some reports had suggested that City were open to cashing in on him if a suitable offer arrived, with the Spaniard “not deemed essential.”

But Lee has stated those rumours are inaccurate, reporting that Gonzalez will stay with Pep Guardiola’s side into the new campaign.

With Kevin De Bruyne departing to Napoli and uncertainty over Ilkay Gundogan’s future, Manchester City have already made significant midfield adjustments — adding Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki. While Gundogan could still be sold if the right offer emerges, Gonzalez is now expected to be part of City’s core midfield options.

Key Details

•  Nico Gonzalez joined City in January 2025 for £50M
•  Exit rumours refuted by The Athletic’s Sam Lee
•  Gundogan more likely to be offloaded than Gonzalez
• City still pursuing right-back targets like Valentino Livramento

FAQ

• What did earlier reports say?
  They claimed City were open to selling Gonzalez if a good offer came in.
• Is Gundogan more likely to leave now?
  Yes. City may consider bids for the 34-year-old midfielder to trim the squad.
• Who else has City signed?
  Reijnders, Ait-Nouri, Bettinelli, and Cherki have all joined this window.

Conclusion

Despite earlier transfer talk, Nico Gonzalez will remain at Manchester City heading into the 2025/26 season, offering Guardiola continued depth in midfield as the squad overhaul continues.