Guardiola Discusses Bobb’s Future Amidst Transfer Speculation

omidbasir- In a candid discussion with the press, Pep Guardiola confronted the ongoing speculation surrounding one of Manchester City’s most promising academy talents, Bobb. The 22-year-old, who has shown flashes of brilliance in previous seasons, has found himself relegated to the fringes of the squad this year. When directly questioned about Bobb’s potential departure from the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola provided a straightforward response.

“I don’t know yet. I am aware of the rumors, and I know discussions are happening, but I cannot confirm anything at this moment,” Guardiola stated regarding the possibility of a transfer. However, when asked if the player himself was looking to leave, the Catalan manager was unequivocal: “I think so.”

Once regarded as a future star on the right flank, Bobb’s development has seemingly stagnated. Guardiola’s remarks indicate that the club may be preparing for his exit if an appropriate offer materializes.

The situation became more evident after Manchester City sanctioned a £65 million deal to acquire Semenyo, a move that has likely diminished Bobb’s chances of regular play. Semenyo has quickly made an impact, showcasing impressive energy and crucial goals in various competitions, including the FA Cup and Premier League. His dynamic playing style offers Guardiola a different attacking option, one he appears eager to employ without delay.

With Semenyo now part of an attacking lineup that already features Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, and Savinho, the competition for wing positions within the squad has intensified.

For Bobb, the desire to leave stems from necessity. At 22, he is no longer the young prospect who can afford to wait on the bench; he is a full international seeking regular play to further his career. Despite having signed a long-term contract extension, his minutes during the 2025-26 season have been significantly limited. He has made just 15 appearances across all competitions, starting nine, and has often found himself as an unused substitute during pivotal Premier League and Champions League matches.

With the World Cup approaching in the summer of 2026, Bobb is eager to maintain his match fitness and secure consistent playing time—an opportunity Guardiola cannot currently promise at Manchester City.

The club has a well-known policy regarding discontented players: if there is a desire to leave and an acceptable price is offered, the door is open. Guardiola has previously allowed the departures of significant players like Cole Palmer, Gabriel Jesus, and Oleksandr Zinchenko when they sought more playing time.

“We need players who want to be here and fight for their place,” Guardiola has reiterated on numerous occasions. By acknowledging that he “thinks” Bobb wishes to depart, he has effectively signaled potential suitors to make their move. With the transfer deadline approaching, discussions are reportedly ongoing, and it is increasingly likely that Bobb will be the next high-profile academy graduate to leave the comforts of the Etihad in search of a starting role elsewhere.