Manchester City find themselves facing an uncharacteristic struggle this season, sitting sixth in the Premier League after four consecutive league titles. Pep Guardiola’s side has a long road ahead to reclaim their crown and secure a fifth title in a row.

City leads the Premier League in average possession (61.6%), shots per game (17.5), and has allowed the fewest shots per game (9.3). However, despite their defensive dominance, City has the highest xG per shot conceded in the league at 0.18, highlighting inefficiencies in their backline.

The absence of Rodri due to injury has severely disrupted the midfield balance, and a lack of youthful dynamism within the ageing squad has exposed the need for a significant rebuild. With the January transfer window approaching, changes could be imminent.

Jamal Musiala Targeted as De Bruyne’s SuccessorCity is reportedly considering Jamal Musiala as a potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, according to The Times. The 21-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder is believed to be a top target heading into the new year. However, Football Insider suggests Bayern has no intention of parting with Musiala during the mid-season window.

The German international’s future remains uncertain as he has yet to agree on a new contract with Bayern, a situation City may seek to exploit. Musiala is also attracting interest from clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Real Madrid.

Musiala’s Impressive SeasonMusiala has made 22 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists in 1,609 minutes of play. His creativity and energy make him an ideal fit for a Manchester City side in need of reinvention. Whether a deal materializes in January or further down the line remains to be seen.

How De Bruyne compares to Musiala

One of Guardiola’s key men is clearly Kevin De Bruyne, who spent a couple of months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. Guardiola’s comments when the Belgian returned show how integral he still is to this City side, with the Spaniard stating “I am so happy he is back”.

The 33-year-old has made 17 appearances so far this season, scoring two goals, providing two assists and totalling 898 minutes played.

However, as the Belgian is ageing, his availability is becoming less reliable, and bringing someone like Musiala through the door could prove to be the quality replacement needed for the superstar midfielder.

When comparing the two, you can see Musiala would provide an extra carrying quality to City, with an ability to pick up the ball in deep channel pockets and drive the team forwards, with 4.17 progressive carries per 90, but also 3.14 successful take-ons per 90, which is hugely important when facing man to man pressing schemes in the modern game.

Musiala doesn’t quite have the same passing range as De Bruyne, but he is still efficient with his key passing, making 2.50 per 90 (slightly less than De Bruyne’s 3.10), showing a good understanding of his decision-making when passing. Jacek Kulig has described the German as an “unbelievable” player, after showing his impact for Vincent Kompany’s side so far this season.

Of course, replacing a player who averages 10.1 progressive passes is always going to be tough, but Musiala provides 6.22 of his own, plus bringing other qualities such as his carrying prowess. In regard to Manchester City’s rebuild, the £90m-rated Germany sensation could be the start of a new generation for the Citizens.