Manchester City concluded a season marked by Pep Guardiola’s departure with Carabao Cup and FA Cup victories, underpinned by strong transfer business in his final year as manager. FootballTransfers has assessed each of Guardiola’s signings from the 2025-26 season, grading them from A to F.
Antoine Semenyo, arriving from Bournemouth for a fee of €72 million (£64m) in January, earned an ‘A’ rating after scoring 11 goals in 27 games, including the winning goal in the FA Cup final. He finished the Premier League season as the third-highest goalscorer with 17 goals overall.
Tijjani Reijnders, signed from AC Milan for €54.9 million (£46.3m) to bolster midfield options, received a ‘C’ grade. While he scored on his Premier League debut, consistent goalscoring proved elusive until December, though the club remains optimistic about his potential under a new manager.
Rayan Cherki, who joined from Lyon for €39.3 million (£34m), was also awarded an ‘A’. The 22-year-old quickly became a fan favourite, contributing 10 goals and 15 assists in all competitions, a remarkable return for his first season in England.
Rayan Ait-Nouri’s move from Wolves for €36.8 million (£31.8m) earned a ‘C’. Injuries limited his Premier League appearances to 16, but his experience represents good value in the current market.
James Trafford, signed from Burnley for €31.2 million (£27m), received a ‘D’. While he played a key role in City’s cup successes, his season was overshadowed by the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma, and some believe he would have been better suited to Newcastle United.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, arriving from Paris Saint-Germain for €30.1 million (£26m), earned an ‘A’. The Italy international quickly established himself as a top Premier League goalkeeper, keeping 15 clean sheets – second only to Arsenal’s David Raya.
Marc Guehi, signed from Crystal Palace for €23.1 million (£20m), received a ‘B’ rating. The England centre-back was a key figure in City’s title challenge, with a minor defensive error in a draw against Everton being his only notable blip.
Sverre Nypan, who joined from Rosenborg for €14.4 million (£12.5m) and was immediately loaned to Middlesbrough, earned a ‘B’. He made 21 appearances for Boro, reaching the Championship playoff final.
Marcus Bettinelli, a backup goalkeeper signed from Chelsea for €2.4 million (£2m), received a ‘N/A’ rating, having not made a single appearance but earning a contract extension for his contribution to the dressing room.
These signings collectively ensured Guardiola left City with a squad capable of continued success, setting the stage for his successor to build upon.
