Scott Carson has predicted Manchester City to return to their very best, and perhaps as soon as the ongoing season with new players having settled into the club.
The retired goalkeeper, who spent six seasons at the Etihad Stadium, has seen first-hand what it takes to succeed under Pep Guardiola having been part of multiple title-winning squads and his insight carrying weight among City supporters, especially when discussing a potential resurgence after last seasons setbacks.
His comments come at a time when Manchester City appear to have rediscovered their rhythm, with early-season performances and their most-recent 3-0 win over Liverpool showing clear evidence of the relentless dominance that has defined Pep Guardiolas tenure.
Citys 2024/25 campaign was far from straightforward as the four-in-a-row top-flight champions struggled to maintain their usual levels, impacted by injuries and a serious mid-season loss of form.
However, after a summer of recalibration and new arrivals adapting to Pep Guardiolas system, optimism has returned. Figures such as Rayan Cherki and Nico Gonzalez have started to find their feet, while Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku look rejuvenated to offer a supply-line to Erling Haaland to score goals.
The ongoing campaign has also been characterised by a refreshed energy within the dressing room, and Guardiolas blend of emerging talent and seasoned leaders appear to have struck a balance that could see Manchester City reassert themselves both domestically and in Europe.
Speaking during a new interview with Sky Sports News, Scott Carson issued a warning to the rest of the Premier League over Manchester Citys current state-of-play and their pursuit of returning to top-flight glory and continental success off the back of a tough campaign.
It does look like the new players have settled in now, and they do look like theyre getting the Man City of old back and I think thats only bad news for the rest of the Premier League, said Carson.
The recently-retired goalkeeper continued, There has been a lot of changes; a lot of change with staff, coaches, a lot of new players that probably a lot of the players that were fundamental in a lot of the success over the last few years have moved on.
So there is going to be time for change, but I think the situation theyre in now, it definitely is going to be a good season for them.
Scott Carsons assessment echoes growing confidence among Manchester City fans that the clubs transition phase is perhaps complete, and a new era is well underway, while veterans such Bernardo Silva continue to provide stability.
With consistency returning and performances sharpening, there is belief that Manchester City could once again dominate the Premier League and challenge strongly in the UEFA Champions League.
If Carsons prediction proves accurate, the rest of the division may once again be chasing shadows as Guardiolas side look poised to make another sustained push for major honours with a settled squad and renewed hunger among the ranks.