Manchester City are finalizing contract extensions for two pivotal figures in Pep Guardiola's squad, with Ruben Dias and academy graduate Nico O'Reilly poised to commit their futures to the Etihad Stadium.

Defensive Pillar: Ruben Dias' New Deal

• The 28-year-old Portuguese center-back, acquired from Benfica in a £65m deal in 2020, has become synonymous with City's defensive dominance.
• Dias boasts 222 appearances, contributing to 4 Premier League titles, 1 Champions League, and 1 FA Cup triumph.
• Despite his current contract running until 2027, City are keen to reward his leadership and consistency with improved terms.

O'Reilly's Meteoric Rise

• The 20-year-old Mancunian seized his opportunity during last season's injury crisis, making 21 senior appearances – often deputizing at left-back.
• Guardiola praised O'Reilly's adaptability: "Nico embodies our academy philosophy – technical quality meets tactical intelligence."

Summer Transfer Chess

• Departures Loom: Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips remain on the periphery, with no formal bids received yet.
• Goalkeeper Logjam: New signing James Trafford joins Ederson, Stefan Ortega, and Scott Carson, increasing likelihood of Ortega's exit.
• Midfield Interest: Bundesliga and Premier League clubs, including Crystal Palace, monitor James McAtee's situation.

Pre-Season Preparations

City resumed training on July 28 following their Club World Cup campaign, with Guardiola emphasizing "tactical evolution" during their Austrian training camp. The squad faces crucial friendlies ahead of their Premier League title defense.

Source: BBC Sport