Transfer market expert and renowned Italian journalist, Fabrizio Romano, has settled the debate surrounding the future of Egyptian star Omar Marmoush within the corridors of English club Manchester City, coinciding with the Sky Blues' announcement of a new attacking signing during the current winter transfer window by acquiring Ghanaian winger Antoine Simeone.
Details of the Antoine Simeone deal
In a move that bolsters Pep Guardiola's attacking prowess, Manchester City officially announced today (Friday) the signing of Antoine Simeone from Bournemouth. Reports indicate the player has signed a long-term contract spanning five and a half years, in a massive deal worth approximately £65 million, reflecting City's ambition to maintain their domestic and European dominance.
Omar Marmoush's stance: Stay or leave?
Romano clarified via his official platforms that Simeone's arrival does not necessarily mean sacrificing Egyptian international Omar Marmoush. The reliable journalist confirmed that Marmoush has no plans to leave the Etihad Stadium during the current transfer window, as the player is determined to continue competing for his place in the starting lineup. Conversely, reports indicate that the potential casualty of this new signing could be Norwegian talent Oscar Poppe, who is now the most likely to leave the team in search of more regular playing time.
The context of the competition at Manchester City
These moves are part of Manchester City's usual strategy to bolster their bench and ensure strong alternatives in every position, especially with the increased fixture congestion in the second half of the season and the fierce competition for the Premier League and Champions League titles. Guardiola's philosophy is known for its constant rotation, meaning that having Marmoush and Simeone together gives the team significant tactical flexibility. Marmoush excels at playing both centrally and as a winger, while Simeone provides physicality and pace on the flanks.
Marmoush's numbers and his career with City
Omar Marmoush joined Manchester City at the beginning of last year from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth around €75 million, following his impressive performances in the Bundesliga. During his time with the Sky Blues, the Egyptian star has made 40 appearances, scoring 9 goals and providing 4 assists, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the fast pace of the Premier League.
Premier League clubs' interest
It is worth noting that Omar Marmoush’s name has recently been linked to press reports indicating strong interest from other English clubs, most notably Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, who are seeking to strengthen their ranks with a striker who has experience in the English league, but the player’s desire and the City management’s desire so far is to continue.
