Five Manchester City stars deserve squad number upgrades this summer ahead of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
Manchester City are still basking in the glow of becoming the first team in English football history to win four successive league titles.
The Premier League champions will be hoping to maintain their unprecedented Premier League dominance next year, in what could be Pep Guardiola’s last season in charge at the Etihad.
There are bound to be some signings and departures this summer to ensure City stay fresh and hungry for more success.
With players leaving squad numbers will become available, opening the door for some stars to get a deserved upgrade.
Here are five players who should get a new shirt number this summer.
Josko Gvardiol
Josko Gvardiol had a slow start to life at City. Recruited as one of the most expensive centre-backs ever, Guardiola instead opted for him to play on the left side of the back line.
It took time for the Croatian to adapt to playing left-back but by the time April rolled around he had made the position his own.
Gvardiol scored five times and picked up two assists in the final 10 games and made himself undroppable.
If Kalvin Phillips leaves the club this summer, he could see his number upgraded from No.24 to the No.4 he wears for his country.
Upgrade: 24 > 4
Jeremy Doku
In contrast to Gvardiol, Jeremy Doku had an explosive start at City but faded somewhat before having a strong finish to the campaign.
His overall play in a Guardiola system still needs work but the Belgian brings a new dimension to City with his lightning pace and endless bag of tricks.
While No.11 is by no means a bad number, he may fancy a change to the No.7 he wears for Belgium if Joao Cancelo vacates it.
Upgrade: 11 > 7
Rico Lewis
Though still just a teenager, Rico Lewis enjoyed yet another fine season as he continues to become a bigger influence on the City side.
Trusted to play on either side of the defence or even in midfield, Lewis clearly has a massive future and is due an upgrade from the sky-high No.82 he continues to wear.
Numbers 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 26 and – the inverse of his current digit – 28 are all up for grabs.
Upgrade: 82 > 15
Oscar Bobb
Oscar Bobb was the breakout star of the past season and it was his quality, last-gasp winner against Newcastle United that was absolutely crucial in ensuring the title was won.
Having already earned a new long-term contract, the Norwegian playmaker is set to have an even bigger role next season and should get a number upgrade to reflect his growing importance.
The No.14 is free and would be the perfect number for a player of his guile and creativity.
Upgrade: 52 > 14
Micah Hamilton
Exciting winger Micah Hamilton looked impressive in his three first-team cameos, scoring a lovely goal and picking up an assist in his only start against Red Star Belgrade.
The 20-year-old may get another chance to stake a claim during pre-season and might see his number come way down from the No.92 he currently wears.
Upgrade: 92 > 39