The Man City FFP charges continue to cast a shadow over the club, with the potential consequences of the case capable of having a major impact on Manchester City's future. While the outcome remains uncertain, severe sanctions could potentially change the club's competitive landscape and make some of its biggest stars reconsider their futures. If things take a dramatic turn, these are five players who could potentially leave Manchester City.
5. Rayan Cherki
Rayan Cherki is one of the most exciting young attacking talents in world football, and at Manchester City, he is only getting started. The Frenchman possesses tremendous technical ability, creativity and the potential to eventually become one of the best players in his position.
That potential could make him particularly valuable if Manchester City face serious consequences from the FFP case. There is no guarantee that a player with Cherki's enormous ceiling would want to remain at the club if its ability to compete for major trophies or attract elite talent was significantly affected. At this stage of his career, Cherki needs an environment capable of maximizing his development.
4. Ruben Dias
Ruben Dias has already been a key part of the legendary Manchester City side under Pep Guardiola that won virtually everything available, including the Champions League and Premier League titles. The Portuguese defender has established himself as one of the club's most important players during one of the greatest eras in its history.
However, Dias arguably has little left to prove at City. If the FFP charges eventually result in significant sporting or financial consequences, the defender could decide that leaving is the right move. At his age and with his reputation, Dias would have no shortage of elite clubs interested in securing his services.
3. Josko Gvardiol
Josko Gvardiol is another Manchester City player who would attract enormous interest from Europe's biggest clubs. The Croatian has already demonstrated his quality at the highest level and offers something particularly valuable because of his ability to operate both as a left-back and centre-back.
Gvardiol had previously been linked with clubs such as Bayern Munich and Liverpool before joining City, highlighting just how highly he has been regarded across Europe. If Manchester City were to face serious consequences from the FFP case, several top clubs could view the situation as an opportunity to make a move for the versatile defender.
2. Gianluigi Donnarumma
Gianluigi Donnarumma has already experienced life at some of Europe's biggest clubs, having played for AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Manchester City. His arrival was therefore expected to continue his career among Europe's elite.
However, the uncertainty surrounding Manchester City's future could potentially change that trajectory. If the consequences of the FFP charges were severe enough to significantly weaken the club, Donnarumma could consider his options. A goalkeeper of his reputation would likely have plenty of suitors if he became available, potentially making him one of the biggest names to leave.
1. Erling Haaland
Losing Erling Haaland would be an unimaginable consequence for Manchester City. The Norwegian is arguably the best striker in world football and has already established himself as one of the most prolific goalscorers of his generation.
Haaland's presence has been central to City's success, making his potential departure far more significant than an ordinary transfer. If the FFP charges eventually led to circumstances that seriously damaged City's ability to compete at the highest level, even a player of Haaland's stature could reassess his future.
For Manchester City, keeping Haaland would surely be one of the biggest priorities if the club faces major consequences. Losing the Norwegian would represent a seismic blow to the club's ambitions.