flag
back Back
Foden stays but 18 stars quit - we predict Man City's fate if relegation confirmed

Express Sport looks at who could leave Manchester City if they are relegated to the Championship.

Manchester City could lose the vast majority of their star-studded squad if they are forcibly relegated to the Championship. They have appealed their guilty verdict after being found guilty of breaking financial rules and have strongly maintained their innocence. However, if their appeal is rejected, things could get very, very messy at the Etihad Stadium.

It's been reported that the most likely punishment would be to deduct so many points that it would be virtually impossible for City to avoid relegation.

If that happens, many of their top players would almost certainly pursue exits, but a handful could remain loyal and play in England's second tier.

Express Sport looks at every member of the City squad and predicts whether they would stay or leave...

FC Porto v Manchester City - UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1
For a goalkeeper who doesn't play, does it really matter what league City are in? Bettinelli will be out of contract at the end of the season but if he is handed a new deal, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him remain at the Etihad Stadium. (Image: Getty)
Manchester City v Ipswich Town - Premier League 2026/27
There are some players who wouldn't be seen dead playing in the Championship and Donnarumma is among them. He's one of the best goalkeepers in the world and elite clubs would be queuing up for his signature if City are relegated. (Image: Getty)
Manchester City v Norwich City - Carabao Cup Third Round
There is every chance that Rulli would stick around and become City's first-choice goalkeeper in the Championship with Donnarumma out of the picture.  (Image: Getty)
Manchester City v Norwich City - Carabao Cup Third Round
Ait-Nouri is too good for the Championship and would have endless possibilities when it comes to finding a new club. He could jump ship to another Premier League side, go elsewhere in Europe or even secure a lucrative contract in the Middle East. (Image: Getty)

You may like

Iraola: 'It will feel strange to face Perez'

dailymail.com 2 hours ago

EPL: David Moyes Names Chelsea Star Who Disrupted Everton’s Tactical Plans

Dennis2026 1 day ago

Barcelona reportedly open talks to sign Manchester City striker Erling Haaland

nigeriasoccernet.com 1 day ago

Arsenal set for major injury boost as Piero Hincapie return timeline revealed

Standard UK 51 minutes ago

Real Madrid want six PL clubs to pay €80m over abandoned Super League project

AllAboutSports 1 hour ago

Man City's Champions League wildcard with UEFA battle serving as Premier League warning

Mirror Online 4 hours ago

Manchester City Superstar Ruled Out of Arsenal Clash With 8-week Injury

Abdullateef Kausara 10 hours ago

Real Madrid chases Liverpool over $90M payment as Premier League clubs targeted

liverpool.com 4 hours ago

As Lionel Messi stands aside, we ask: Who is the best player in the world right now?

101greatgoals.com 2 weeks ago

Man City have a vital revival catalyst as Daily Mail outline potential new sanctions

manchestercity.news 1 day ago