‘It’s Not Healthy!’ – Pep Guardiola Demands Man City Players Leave the Club With Ederson and Savinho in Talks Over Exits

A Commanding Start Overshadowed by Guardiola’s Warning

Manchester City began their Premier League title defence with a statement 4-0 victory over Wolves at Molineux. Erling Haaland was at his ruthless best, bagging a brace, while summer arrivals Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki marked their league debuts with goals of their own. James Trafford impressed between the posts, and Rayan Aït-Nouri, once of Wolves, shone on his return.

Yet, in the aftermath of the triumph, Pep Guardiola’s post-match reflections weren’t about the goals or clean sheet. Instead, he zeroed in on a topic he has been quietly raising behind closed doors: the size of his squad. With Ederson and Savinho among those linked with exits, Guardiola admitted City’s player pool is simply “not healthy.”

What Happened: A Near-Perfect Opening Day

The scoreline against Wolves flattered no one. City dominated possession, pressed with intensity, and looked every bit like the reigning champions. Haaland’s instinctive finishing reminded the league that he remains the most lethal striker in world football. Reijnders slotted seamlessly into midfield, while Cherki brought flair and creativity to the attacking third.

Trafford, making his first Premier League start in goal, showcased composure and sharp reflexes. His presence only fuelled speculation about Ederson’s uncertain future. Aït-Nouri, meanwhile, added defensive solidity and extra width down the flank, leaving Wolves fans wishing he still wore their shirt.

For all the positives, Guardiola’s focus shifted swiftly to an issue off the pitch: too many players, not enough minutes.

What Guardiola Said: “Too Many People”

Pep Guardiola

When asked about his team’s depth, Guardiola cut a candid figure.

“Too much — too many people. I like a deep squad to compete in all competitions, but I don’t want to leave players at home. It’s not healthy. You cannot create a good vibe or atmosphere to compete. Everyone has to feel they can play and help.”

His comments weren’t made in frustration at his players but rather at the dilemma of abundance. For Guardiola, competition for places is essential, but excess bodies only breed discontent. He noted that the issue wasn’t new — City had flagged it as early as last season. Still, with the window closing soon, the pressure is on to trim numbers.

Ederson’s Situation: A No.1 Under Scrutiny

Perhaps the most surprising name in the mix is Ederson. The Brazilian goalkeeper has been Guardiola’s trusted No.1 since 2017, redefining the position with his ball-playing ability. But links to Galatasaray have cast uncertainty over his future.

On paper, Ederson remains untouchable. Guardiola publicly maintains that he is still City’s first choice. Yet, with Trafford waiting in the wings and Stefan Ortega providing reliable cover, the club may be bracing for a scenario in which Ederson pushes for a new challenge.

The notion of Ederson leaving City feels seismic. After all, he has been at the heart of their dominance, his calm distribution forming the foundation of Guardiola’s build-from-the-back philosophy. Letting him go would not only alter City’s dynamic but also leave them in the unusual position of entering a season with relative inexperience between the posts.

Savinho: Girona’s Starlet in Demand

Another player attracting headlines is Savinho, the 20-year-old Brazilian winger who lit up La Liga during his loan spell at Girona. Quick, fearless, and capable of producing moments of brilliance, he became one of the breakout stars in Spain last season.

Unsurprisingly, his form hasn’t gone unnoticed. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on bringing him to North London, while other European clubs have made enquiries. For City, the dilemma is whether to integrate him into Guardiola’s squad or cash in while his stock is high.

Savinho’s talent is undeniable, but Guardiola’s comments about “too many people” suggest City may opt to let him leave — at least temporarily. If Tottenham’s interest translates into a concrete offer, Savinho could become one of the more high-profile departures before deadline day.

The Bigger Picture: Managing Success

Pep Guardiola Savinho Ederson Man City

Guardiola’s words strike at a deeper issue for Manchester City: managing the balance between depth and unity. Winning eight Premier League titles has created an allure that attracts top players, but keeping them happy is another story.

In today’s game, having 25 or more elite players sounds like a dream, but it often backfires. Dressing rooms thrive on competition, yes, but they also rely on everyone feeling valued. When multiple internationals are regularly left out of matchday squads, frustration seeps in. That’s the “unhealthy” environment Pep Guardiola wants to avoid.

This isn’t new territory for him. At Barcelona, he faced similar problems with world-class players fighting for limited spots. At Bayern Munich, the challenge was just as pronounced. The difference now is that City’s recent success — including a historic treble — means expectations are sky-high. Guardiola needs a squad lean enough to maintain chemistry but strong enough to chase trophies on all fronts.

What Next for Manchester City?

The next two weeks promise to be busy. City must identify who stays and who goes, all while navigating the early stages of the season. Ederson and Savinho are the two names currently in the spotlight, but others could follow depending on offers.

Guardiola is clear: he wants a tighter group. That doesn’t mean City will be left short. Even without Ederson, they would still have Trafford and Ortega in goal. Even without Savinho, they would boast one of the most potent attacking lineups in Europe. The goal is balance, not sacrifice.

On the pitch, attention now turns to a mouthwatering clash with Tottenham Hotspur next weekend. For Pep Guardiola, it will be a chance to test his new signings against one of the league’s most aggressive sides. Off the pitch, though, the priority will be reducing the squad to a “healthy” number before the transfer deadline.

Final Thoughts: Pep’s Pursuit of Harmony

Pep Guardiola’s comments may sound harsh, but they come from a place of experience. He knows better than anyone that too many players can fracture a squad. Titles aren’t just won on the pitch; they’re won in the atmosphere of the dressing room, the training ground, and even the team bus.

“It’s not healthy,” Pep Guardiola insisted. And he’s right. City’s challenge this season isn’t just about beating rivals — it’s about keeping their own house in order. Whether Ederson stays, whether Savinho goes, and whether City manage to trim the fat without losing their edge will define the months ahead.

One thing’s for sure: Pep Guardiola will not allow complacency to creep in. City may have opened their campaign in style, but the real work — shaping a squad capable of harmony and hunger — is only just beginning.