Manchester City are still unsure of what European competition they will partake in next season – although transfer plans are being made in the background regardless.
Pep Guardiola just needs to ensure Manchester City finish in the top five of the Premier League this season to book a spot in the UEFA Champions League – an extra slot has been awarded by UEFA after English clubs performed well in Europe this term.
Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are the two sides hunting the pack.
While the race for UEFA Champions League football might unnerve some Manchester City fans, there has now been some positive news regarding Florian Wirtz – the No.1 target for Hugo Viana this summer.
Florian Wirtz is open to leaving Bayer Leverkusen
The Germany international has now admitted he is open to joining a new club this summer, as Manchester City attempt to beat Bayern Munich and Real Madrid to his signature.
Wirtz told Sports Illustrated: “I’m lucky to have so many excellent clubs right on my doorstep and to now be able to play for one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe.
“It’s definitely tempting for me to leave my comfort zone at some point and experience something new. I know the football dressing rooms well enough and am convinced that I would quickly find my place anywhere.”
🚨 Florian Wirtz tells Sports Illustrated: “I’m lucky to have so many excellent clubs right on my doorstep and to now be able to play for one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe”.
“It’s definitely tempting for me to leave my comfort zone at some point and experience… pic.twitter.com/eVBDlA4ya9
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 8, 2025
Manchester City have already met with Bayer Leverkusen to discuss a £100m deal for Wirtz – the German side actually travelled to the Etihad Campus, as they are keen to sign James McAtee and Stefan Ortega this summer.
Manchester City will have to try and change the mind of Hans-Joachim Wirtz
A father can have huge influence on their son, which represents a potential issue for Manchester City.
Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images
Hans-Joachim Wirtz has told Wirtz to choose Bayern Munich over Manchester City, according to Christian Falk, with the Bayer Leverkusen No.10’s father and agent believing a move to Bavaria represents a wiser career choice.
Manchester City are still pushing to sign the attacking midfielder regardless, although this development could prove problematic.