‘Played very badly’ – Man City’s former £52m defender looking forward to return back to Manchester City

Benjamin Mendy is looking for a new club after his contract with Swiss Super League side FC Zurich was terminated with immediate effect.

The left-back struggled to make an impact in Switzerland and was recently chastised for his performances by club president Ancillo Canepa, hinting at a possible departure.

Mendy signed with FC Zurich in February and agreed to a contract until the summer of 2026, however the deal was terminated early by mutual consent.

A statement on the club website read: “FC Zurich announces that the contract with French defender Benjamin Mendy has been terminated by mutual consent.” He is leaving the city club with immediate effect.

“FCZ wishes Benjamin Mendy all the best for his private and sporting future.”

Mendy was suspended by City in August 2021 after police charged him with multiple counts of rape and one suspected sexual assault. In a retrial in July 2023, the Frenchman was acquitted on six charges of rape and one of sexual assault. He was also acquitted of one attempted rape.

Manchester City in battle for €60 million. Hugo Viana targets Manchester United

Manchester City will reportedly compete with Manchester United to sign Morten Hjulmand this summer, with the Sporting CP player available for less than his release clause.

Hjulmand played for clubs in Denmark, Austria, and Italy before joining Sporting in August 2023. The central midfielder went on to play 96 games for Sporting in all competitions, contributing seven goals and six assists.

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Hjulmand has developed as one of Portugal’s greatest players, and he was selected Sporting’s captain at the beginning of the season.

Hjulmand is a combative midfielder with excellent game intelligence who can often intercept passes before breaking down opposing defenses with his incredible vision.

Several prominent European teams, including Manchester City, Manchester United, and Juventus, have expressed interest in his aggressive yet polished performances.

On Monday, TEAMtalk revealed that Ruben Amorim had approved Hjulmand’s transfer to United.

According to sources, Amorim is anxious to reunite with the Danish star and hopes United can hijack Juve’s talks for him.

A Bola, a Portuguese publication, reports Manchester City has also entered the transfer market, complicating the situation.

According to A Bola, Hugo Viana is interested in signing Hjulmand for City, confirming our previous claim of United’s interest.

Viana departed Sporting to become City’s new director of football earlier this year. He developed a strong friendship with Amorim but is now attempting to deprive the head coach by obtaining Hjulmand’s services first.

Viana is likely to use his Sporting contacts to initiate official talks with the 26-year-old in the coming weeks.

Hjulmand’s release clause in his Sporting contract is €80 million (£69 million / $94 million), but he can go for less.

Sporting want €50-60 million (up to £52 million / $70 million) to release their leader. They want to be adequately rewarded, given they will also lose Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal this summer.

TEAMtalk understands. Juve has made considerable headway in contract negotiations with Hjulmand, but the Italian giants are still some distance from satisfying Sporting’s demands.

Juventus is only willing to spend roughly €35 million (£30 million / $41 million) for Hjulmand, allowing City and United to jump in.

Morten Hjulmand has a significant decision to make.

The 26-year-old would prefer to join Juventus over United, but City’s involvement may force him to reconsider.

Sporting is also attempting to sign Hjulmand to a new deal, however it is unclear whether such negotiations will be successful.

Hjulmand will have to make a tough decision if City comes calling. Given the strength of Pep Guardiola’s City side, he would have to work hard to break into Pep Guardiola’s starting eleven.

At the same time, a move to City would allow him to play under one of the greatest managers in history while also competing for significant titles such as the Premier League and Champions League.

United’s inability to offer any type of European football may have an impact on their hopes of securing another transfer target, as Liam Delap chose Champions League football with Chelsea instead.

Hjulmand’s future remains uncertain, but this transfer saga is undoubtedly worth following.

City plotkeeper ‘offer’; United’s deal rejected.

City is looking for a replacement for goalkeeper Ederson and will make a ‘offer’ for a Portuguese player.

In other news, United is said to have made a bid for Emi Martinez of Aston Villa as well.

Oleksandr Zinchenko feels the former Manchester City great is the smartest player of all time

Oleksandr Zinchenko had the privilege of playing with some of the best players in the game’s history while at Manchester City.

The Ukrainian has trained and played alongside well-known players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Sergio Aguero, David Silva, and Vincent Kompany.

Oleksandr Zinchenko, who signed for Manchester City as a kid, would have enjoyed sharing the dressing room with several football icons.

Zinchenko, 28, was impressive during his stint at City, with De Bruyne praising his efforts.

Oleksandr Zinchenko believes David Silva is the greatest intellectual football player in history.

According to Mail Sport, Zinchenko was requested to create the finest possible player.

Arsenal’s left-back chose Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for having the best right and left feet, as expected.

The four-time Premier League winner chose Kylian Mbappe above former Manchester City teammates Kyle Walker and Vincent Kompany based on their speed, strength, and charisma.

Oleksandr Zinchenko’s record with David Silva at Manchester City

Zinchenko has previously praised David Silva as the finest player he has ever played with, stating, “David Silva, but honestly, I love the others so much like Vincent, Aguero, Fernandinho, the list is there, but if you want me to choose one, David.”

“Wow, I’ve never seen anything like this in my life. I consider myself really fortunate to have had the opportunity to play with him and Leroy [Sane] on the left. You give David any ball, and his first touch will always be correct.”

“He’s not a super-fast player but he’s always in front of us, open, because he’s always in the right position.”

“He reads the game on another level.”

Zinchenko appeared 45 times alongside David Silva for Manchester City.

Heartbreak for Cole Palmer? Man City Star Reportedly Turns Down Girlfriend’s Proposal Amid Social Media Fallout

Manchester City forward Cole Palmer has found himself at the center of an unexpected media storm—not on the pitch, but in his personal life. The young football sensation is reportedly going through a romantic rift after allegedly turning down a surprise marriage proposal from his girlfriend, influencer and model Connie Grace.

The story first surfaced on social media, with fans noticing that both Palmer and Grace had unfollowed each other on Instagram. That small but symbolic digital move quickly ignited speculation, with followers piecing together clues suggesting a sudden fallout between the couple.

According to insiders close to the situation, the proposal was made during what was supposed to be a quiet and intimate vacation. Connie Grace, said to be deeply committed to the relationship, allegedly decided to take a leap of faith by asking the footballer to marry her. The decision, while bold, was rooted in the belief that the pair had a strong, loving bond.

However, reports claim that Palmer was caught off guard. While he’s known for his cool head on the field, the unexpected nature of the proposal reportedly left him unsure and unwilling to commit at this point in his life. Sources suggest he politely declined, stressing that he wasn’t ready for marriage yet.

The rejection, while not hostile, may have hit harder than expected. Connie, who frequently shared moments of their life together on social media, has since removed several photos featuring Palmer from her feed. Palmer, too, seems to have scrubbed recent posts that included his now-former girlfriend.

Neither Palmer nor Grace has made a public statement, but the silence has only fueled speculation. Fans have flooded their comment sections with questions, concern, and even support, but so far, the couple has kept things private.

The news comes as a surprise to many who followed the relationship closely. The pair had been together for quite some time and were seen as one of the rising “it” couples among young footballers and influencers. Their social media accounts were filled with vacation photos, date nights, and signs of affection.

Some fans have pointed out that Connie’s proposal was unconventional but brave. It’s not common for women—especially in high-profile relationships—to take that step first. Her decision to do so speaks volumes about the strength of her feelings and her view of the relationship’s future.

Palmer, on the other hand, is still in the early stages of what looks to be a promising football career. With Manchester City demanding full focus from their players both physically and mentally, it’s possible the young star felt the timing wasn’t right to take on the pressures of marriage.

Friends close to the couple reportedly believe the breakup may not be permanent. Emotions are still raw, and the fallout may simply be the result of a disagreement on timing and commitment, rather than a lack of love. Time, they say, could bring clarity.

Despite the romantic turmoil, Palmer has continued to train with City ahead of the new season. He’s maintained a focused appearance at the training ground, avoiding media questions about his personal life and concentrating instead on impressing manager Pep Guardiola.

Connie Grace, meanwhile, has kept a low profile. She’s remained active on her Instagram stories but has avoided mentioning Palmer or any of the rumors directly. Instead, she’s been posting inspirational quotes and snapshots of her solo adventures, which fans have interpreted as signs of healing.

Relationship experts weighing in on the situation say the public nature of their split—played out through social media—adds extra pressure to an already sensitive moment. The visibility of their lives can magnify private decisions, making even the most personal issues topics of public conversation.

While the relationship status remains officially unconfirmed, the unfollowing and photo deletions tell a compelling story. In the digital age, such moves often serve as the loudest of quiet announcements.

The incident also highlights the growing scrutiny young footballers face, not just in their professional careers but in their personal lives. With fame comes the burden of constant attention, and not every relationship survives under that glare.

For now, fans will have to wait to see if Palmer or Grace decides to break their silence. Until then, the speculation continues to swirl, and many are left wondering whether this is just a momentary rift or the final chapter in their love story.

Regardless of the outcome, both Palmer and Grace are expected to move forward with grace and dignity. Breakups, especially under the spotlight, are never easy—but growth often comes from difficult choices.

As Palmer continues to chase trophies and grace the pitch with his talents, and Connie pursues her own creative path, one thing is clear: this story, like their romance, has captured the attention of many. Only time will tell what happens next.

Sverre Nypan: Manchester City sign ‘next Martin Odegaard’ in £12.5 million deal from Rosenborg

Man City have confirmed the signing of Sverre Nypan from Rosenborg BK; the Norwegian U21 international has been dubbed the ‘new Martin Odegaard’. City had already made four summer signings: Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait Nouri, and Marcus Bettinelli.

Manchester City have signed Sverre Nypan, a highly rated adolescent.

In June, Sky Sports News reported that City had struck a £12.5 million agreement with Rosenborg BK for the 18-year-old midfielder.

This is Rosenborg’s record sale.

Nypan has signed a five-year contract that runs until 2030.

215 games.

City considers him a future star, and he is slated to go out on loan this summer.

If a loan is not secured before City return for pre-season, Nypan will train with the first team until one is secured.

Nypan, a Norway U21 international, is regarded as one of the country’s best prospects and has been dubbed the ‘next Martin Odegaard’.

City has already signed four players this summer: Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait Nouri, and Marcus Bettinelli.

Analysis: A star in the making

Image:Sky Sports looks at why Man City pursued 18-year-old Sverre Nypan

Sky Sports’ Pat Rowe:

“On the pitch, Sverre Nypan is a rising star.

“But away from it, he is a regular, grounded 18-year-old who, despite his exceptional talents, keeps his feet firmly on the ground.”

“Since making his Rosenborg debut at the age of 15, eight months after arriving from district club Nardo FK, to become the youngest player to represent and eventually score for the Norwegian top-flight side, Nypan has enjoyed an astronomical rise, with clubs across Europe keeping an eye on him at all times.”

In January, Sky Sports News reported that Arsenal were interested in signing Nypan, but he preferred to wait until the summer to make a choice.

“Now, it is Manchester City and Pep Guardiola who have made the teenager his latest signing.”

‘I love Manchester City more than anything,’ Jack Grealish tells fans during Oasis gig amid reports of his departure

After singing with fans at an Oasis concert, an emotional Jack Grealish spilled his heart out to a Manchester City fan, stating that he loves the club “more than anything”.

The Manchester City and England player was seen delivering an emotional message to fans following Oasis’ homecoming concert at Heaton Park in Manchester on Friday (11/07).

He was also heard singing ‘four in a row’ with a City supporter, referring to Manchester City’s historic 2023/24 title win, which made them the first team in Premier League history to win it four seasons in a row.

Grealish informed fans in the video that he loves the club “more than anything” as speculation about his future at the club grows.

The forward has been linked with a move away from the Etihad this summer, and his current manager, Pep Guardiola, was also seen belting out the lines to ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’ at the same performance.

According to an eyewitness, “After the gig had finished around 10.25pm, he was chanting ‘four in a row’ and was smiling and close to the fans.” Another fan calls out for a picture, and he comes over – he was mingling a lot with other fans.”

Grealish has also recently made headlines after a Manchester United supporter admitted to assaulting the Manchester City and England midfielder after the Manchester derby, saying the player insulted him moments before.

Alfie Holt, 20, pleaded guilty at Manchester Magistrates’ Court to a single count of assault following an altercation involving Grealish, who he claimed branded him a “little ugly w****r” after the high-profile encounter at Old Trafford in April.

Holt, a long-time United season ticket holder sat in the Stretford End, received a three-year Football Banning Order. He was also fined £120, ordered to pay £85 in costs, and assessed a £48 victim surcharge.

Holt, of Haven Drive, Droylsden, Tameside, told the court: “I didn’t expect him to say what he said to me, and I reacted. I regret it. “That’s it.”

Grealish told police, in a witness statement heard in court, that he couldn’t hear what Holt was saying owing to crowd noise and approached him to speak. Grealish, unable to understand the words, leaned in and turned to go, only to be slapped.

Following his arrest, Holt told officers that he had been drinking in Manchester’s city centre before to the game and had gone with his father. He confessed hurling profanity at City players, notably Phil Foden, who did not respond.

He then branded Grealish a “k***head,” which sparked what he described as a “verbal altercation.” He claimed Grealish called him a “little ugly w****r” after which he “flipped” and attacked the footballer.

Holt’s Manchester United season ticket, which he had owned for 12 years, had already been revoked—a consequence she described as “a significant punishment”. The court was informed that fines could not be removed from Holt’s Personal Independence Payments, and his parents had promised to pay the entire sum within 28 days.

Report: Manchester City chasing £72m England playmaker to replace Kevin De Bruyne

Manchester City’s summer plans have taken shape around the impending departure of Kevin De Bruyne, with Pep Guardiola’s side eyeing Crystal Palace’s England international Eberechi Eze as a primary target to fill the creative void at the Etihad Stadium. The Belgian maestro, after ten trophy-laden years, will leave at season’s end, prompting City to scout big-money replacements despite internal options like Phil Foden . Sources indicate that City are willing to meet a price in the region of €80 million (circa £72 million) for Eze, reflecting both Palace’s valuation and the club’s ambition to maintain its attacking edge . Financial considerations under Premier League Profit and Sustainability Regulations make such an investment significant, yet Guardiola’s commitment to youth and homegrown talent underpins this pursuit .

Kevin De Bruyne: Legacy and Departure

Kevin De Bruyne announced via his official social channels that he will depart Manchester City at the end of his contract this summer, capping off a decade that yielded six Premier League titles, a Champions League, and over 100 goals for the club . Widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s greatest ever, De Bruyne’s vision and passing have set benchmarks, and Guardiola himself has admitted that replacing his influence is “almost impossible” . His final contributions, including a pivotal performance in City’s 5–2 win over Crystal Palace, underscored the gap his exit will leave in the squad’s creative midfield .

De Bruyne’s departure also coincides with the aging of other City veterans—Ederson, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva and John Stones are all over 30—further motivating Guardiola to refresh his squad with younger profiles capable of sustaining City’s high-intensity, possession-based style .

Manchester City’s Transfer Strategy under Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola’s transfer blueprint emphasizes versatility, youth and an English core, having previously integrated homegrown talents such as Stones, Walker and Jack Grealish . Despite this, De Bruyne’s calibre has driven City to consider high-profile signings to safeguard their title ambitions after Liverpool reclaimed the Premier League crown . City’s January outlay of £188 million on four players highlighted their willingness to invest heavily, and summer bids are expected to target key positions across midfield, defence and goalkeeping, ensuring squad depth for a treble-chasing campaign .

However, with City mindful of Profit and Sustainability Regulations, balancing wage bills and transfer fees will be crucial. Reports suggest potential departures for high earners like Ederson and Bernardo Silva after 2026 and exploring loan or sale avenues for certain senior players to fund new arrivals .

Eberechi Eze: Profile of the £72 Million Target

Eberechi Eze, 26, has emerged as one of England’s most dynamic attacking midfielders, blending dribbling, passing range and shooting to devastating effect for Crystal Palace . Born in London and a former QPR youth product, Eze joined Palace in 2020 and has since become integral, recording 5 goals and 8 assists in 31 Premier League appearances during the current season . His overall output extends to 13 goal contributions (goals plus assists), placing him among the league’s elite chance-creators in 2024–25 .

Eze’s contract at Selhurst Park runs until June 2027, and Palace initially included a release clause rumored at £60 million (later reported at £68 million) in his deal, though the clause expired, giving Palace greater leverage in fee negotiations . Transfermarkt currently values him at €55 million, but Palace’s willingness to negotiate at around €80 million reflects his proven consistency and international potential, with 10 England caps and growing interest from other top clubs .

Financial Implications and Valuation

City’s reported valuation of €80 million (approx. £72 million) for Eze represents one of the club’s priciest summer pursuits outside of marquee names like Florian Wirtz, who is valued above €100 million . Such an outlay underscores City’s intent to promptly replace De Bruyne’s creative output, even if it stretches the club’s transfer record. With Fichajes specifying the initial asking price and Transfermarkt providing an independent valuation, stakeholders acknowledge Eze’s rising market worth .

Balancing this fee with the potential sale or loan of senior squad members will be integral; City’s January spending forced budgetary scrutiny, and their summer activity is expected to be carefully phased to comply with PSR thresholds without hindering squad quality .

Competition and Alternative Targets

While Eze tops City’s midfield wish list, Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest is also under consideration, offering athleticism and versatility along with homegrown status, which appeals to Guardiola’s “English core” philosophy . Reports from Fabrizio Romano on X indicate City will advance their pursuit of Gibbs-White imminently, though Forest’s £100 million valuation complicates negotiations .

Elsewhere, Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz remains of interest; City reportedly view him as a premium alternative despite his reluctance to leave Germany. A bidding war with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich looms, with Wirtz carrying a price-tag north of €100 million . City’s recruitment team must weigh the relative affordability and playing styles of Eze, Gibbs-White and Wirtz to mold a midfield unit capable of replicating De Bruyne’s multifaceted role .

Comparative Analysis: Eze vs. De Bruyne

De Bruyne’s hallmark has been his unparalleled vision and precise long-range passing, averaging 3 key passes per game in recent seasons. By contrast, Eze’s 2.07 key passes per match and 82.5% pass completion highlight his creative instincts within Palace’s more direct, counter-attacking setup . While De Bruyne often orchestrated play from central zones, Eze’s versatility allows him to drift wide or occupy central pockets, affording Guardiola tactical flexibility .

Statistically, De Bruyne recorded 10 goals and 18 assists in 2023–24, whereas Eze’s current season tally stands at 5 goals and 8 assists from 31 appearances. City must consider supplementing Eze with additional playmakers or pairing him with an athletic box-to-box midfielder like Gibbs-White to emulate De Bruyne’s all-around contributions .

Fan and Expert Reactions

Palace supporters view Eze as the crown jewel of their squad, with Guardian pundits lauding him as a match-winner capable of steering Palace through any fixture at Wembley . City fans, meanwhile, debate on social platforms whether Eze can shoulder the creative burden at Champions League level, with some advocating for a dual-target approach involving both Eze and Gibbs-White to distribute responsibilities .

Analysts highlight the importance of integrating Eze within City’s possession-dominant structure; his press-resistant dribbling and positional intelligence suit Guardiola’s instructions, but adaptation to tighter central spaces and defensive transitions will be key to his success at the Etihad .

Outlook and Conclusion

As the summer window approaches, Manchester City’s pursuit of Eberechi Eze for around £72 million epitomizes Guardiola’s blend of ambition and pragmatism—investing heavily in top English talent to offset the exit of a generational talent . The potential capture of Eze, possibly alongside Morgan Gibbs-White, would reshape City’s midfield, blending flair, youth and tactical versatility. Financial prudence under PSR will necessitate judicious squad adjustments, yet City’s willingness to pursue such a high-profile deal underscores their determination to maintain domestic and European dominance in the post-De Bruyne era .

In the coming weeks, negotiations will intensify, and City’s final decision will reflect a strategic balance of cost, fit and squad dynamics. Should Eze don the sky blue, he will be entrusted with one of the Premier League’s heaviest creative legacies—a challenge befitting Manchester City’s status as the benchmark of modern football.