Dunne says it’s time for City to give youth a go
FORMER City captain Richard Dunne fears the club may struggle to keep hold of manager Pep Guardiola following UEFA’s decision to ban them from the Champions League for two seasons.
Speculation has raged surrounding the Catalan’s future at the club despite him repeatingly saying he is open to staying at the Etihad Stadium beyond the end of his contract, which is set to expire in June 2021.
Nevertheless, Dunne believes the situation may have changed as a result of the ban, fearing Guardiola could leave the club for the chance to win the trophy he last lifted nine years ago with Barcelona.
“Wherever he’s gone, he’s always been there to be a winner. That’s what he’ll want to remain,” he said.
“He wants to go and win trophies and if City are in a situation where they can no longer compete, because they’re selling players and can’t attract the top players because there’s no Champions League football, it will be difficult.
“I think the club has been organised really well - the whole club, not just the first team. They have a structure in place where they will survive and try and rebuild again.
“But to lose someone like Pep Guardiola would be a huge blow. He’s what they’ve worked towards, to try and get him to come in as manager, and he’s been successful.
“You listen to players talk about why they sign for teams and Pep is a huge attraction for any player.”
Dunne feels City should look to Chelsea for inspiration if the decision is upheld as Frank Lampard has turned to youth following their transfer ban.
He said: “City have that number of talented players coming through in the background, their academy is so highly thought of. They just need players to get to the first team and this may be the opportunity for them.”