Manchester City USA Tour: Key Winners and Losers Exposed

Manchester City USA tour wraps up against Chelsea this weekend, still in search of their first win.

Despite the lack of victories for Manchester City USA tour so far, has been anything but disappointing for Pep Guardiola’s squad. The Blues have unearthed another Academy gem, discovered a new attacking star, and watched one youngster solidify his place in the team. However, the summer Stateside journey has also left two players facing uncertain futures.

Before the Manchester City USA tour ends this year, there is one more friendly scheduled against Premier League rivals Chelsea.

Although they haven’t won any of their three matches so far, Guardiola remains unconcerned, given the youthful squad and the absence of many star players. Nonetheless, a win against Enzo Maresca’s side in Ohio would be a perfect way to end their USA tour on a high note and deliver a psychological edge ahead of the Premier League opener.

The Manchester City USA tour has been a period of revelation for Club, with several standout performers and some who haven’t fared as well. Here’s a look at the key winners and losers over the past two weeks.

Winners

Oscar Bobb

the standout player so far in Manchester City USA tour has been the Norwegian prodigy, who has dazzled with one goal and three assists, earning high praise from his manager. Primarily stationed on the right wing, his trickery and directness have made him a vital attacking outlet in all three matches. Versatile and dynamic, he seems poised for a more significant role this season after breaking into the squad last year.

Rico Lewis

Two years ago in America, Rico Lewis first emerged as a promising talent, and this years Manchester City USA tour has served as a strong reminder of his capabilities. He is the only player to have played every minute so far, showcasing his versatility, even though none of his appearances have been in his preferred midfield position. Lewis is starting to look every bit like a top-tier Premier League player. With several senior stars absent, he may have moved up the pecking order and could earn a start on opening day.

Nico O’Reilly

Nico O’Reilly has been the breakout star of 2024 Manchester City USA tour. His goal against Barcelona was a well-deserved reward for his impressive performances across all three matches. Long regarded as an exciting academy prospect, O’Reilly’s progress was hindered by injury last season, but he is now fit and firing. Guardiola has praised his first-team potential, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him included in the matchday squad for the Community Shield in just over a week.

Losers

Kalvin Phillips

Kalvin Phillips had a decent performance in the heart of defense against Barcelona, but his midfield weaknesses were glaringly exposed against Celtic and AC Milan. Guardiola’s critical remarks about Phillips struggling in tight spaces and controlled games were a harsh assessment of his place in the squad.

After a challenging loan spell at West Ham last season, Phillips isn’t attracting much interest, despite having four years left on his Etihad contract. It’s hard to envision a long-term future for him at City, and he hasn’t done much to change that perception in recent weeks.

Julian Alvarez

Julian Alvarez hasn’t even set foot in America, yet he’s been making headlines. Guardiola’s frosty response to Alvarez’s desire for more playing time highlighted a potential rift. Although it’s a reasonable request from a player who has won every major honor for both club and country over the past two years, airing such grievances publicly might not be the best strategy.

Many clubs would snap up Alvarez in an instant, but with a potential valuation around £100 million and a contract until 2027, City is unlikely to let him go easily. Currently on Olympic duty with Argentina, Alvarez is expected to return to Manchester in September. Assuming he stays, his role in the opening weeks of the season will be intriguing to watch.