The latest addition to City's squad is Spanish midfielder Gonzalez, their fifth signing of the window, who has inked a four-and-a-half-year contract. The 23-year-old began his senior career at Barcelona in 2019 before moving to Porto in July 2023. During his time at Porto, Gonzalez scored nine goals and provided nine assists in 68 appearances, helping the team secure the Portuguese Cup last season.
Expressing his excitement, Gonzalez said, "This is the perfect opportunity for me at this stage of my career. I want to test myself in England, and there's no better club than Manchester City. The squad is unbelievable, filled with world-class players. I'm honored to work under Pep Guardiola."
City's midfield has faced challenges, particularly due to the absence of Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, sidelined since September with a knee injury. Gonzalez, known for his versatility, has transitioned from a holding midfielder to a box-to-box role. Standing at 6ft 2in, he adds physicality to City's midfield but isn't a direct replacement for Rodri.
Joining Gonzalez are Egypt forward Omar Marmoush, Brazilian defender Vitor Reis, Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov, and Sierra Leonean defender Juma Bah, who has been loaned to Lens. Khusanov was City's first signing this window, arriving from Lens for £33.6 million. Reis joined from Palmeiras for £29.6 million, while Marmoush cost £59 million after an impressive Bundesliga season with Eintracht Frankfurt.
City's £180 million expenditure surpasses the combined spending of many Premier League clubs this window. However, it falls short of their record summer 2017 outlay of £225 million. Despite the hefty investments, City awaits a verdict on 115 alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial rules.
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire noted, "City have been financially successful, with profits from player sales, European qualifications, and sponsorships. The 115 charges relate to 2009-2018, and when resolved, it may reset their future spending capabilities."
Currently fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Liverpool, City hopes their new signings will bolster their title ambitions.
