Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, are reportedly considering a move to re-sign their former player amidst a challenging season. The team is set to host neighbours Manchester United on Sunday in a match that both sides desperately need to win.
City boss Pep Guardiola is currently experiencing his worst ever run as a manager. His side has managed only one victory in their last ten matches across all competitions. This dismal performance has led to criticism and calls for change within the team. On the other hand, Manchester United initially went unbeaten during new head coach Ruben Amorim’s first three matches in charge before suffering defeats against both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest. However, they returned to winning ways against Czech side Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday.
Amorim will be hoping his side can capitalise on City's current form and secure another victory this Sunday.
Potential return for Frimpong?
In light of these recent struggles, it appears that Manchester City are eyeing up potential reinforcements. According to reports, they are considering making a move for Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong as part of an effort to replace veteran defender Kyle Walker.
Frimpong departed from City’s academy back in 2019 when he joined Scottish side Celtic before moving onto Leverkusen two years later. Since then, he has played 165 times for the German side across all competitions - scoring 27 goals and providing 40 assists along the way.
The Netherlands international played an instrumental role as Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen won their first-ever Bundesliga title last year. However, with his contract running until 2028 at Leverkusen, it could prove difficult for City to lure him back home.
Replacing veteran defender Kyle Walker
Kyle Walker has been a mainstay in Guardiola’s backline for several years now. However, his performances during the Citizens’ recent run of poor form have prompted criticism and calls for a change.
The report suggests that those in charge at Manchester City are now on the hunt for a replacement. If they can secure Frimpong's return, it could provide the much-needed boost to their defensive line and potentially turn around their season.
While Manchester City is going through a challenging period, there seems to be potential strategies in place to regain their winning momentum. The upcoming match against Manchester United will be crucial not only for points but also as an indicator of how effective these strategies might be.