Manchester City supporters will have been taken by surprise on Monday when they discovered that Joao Cancelo was on the way out of the Etihad Stadium.
Cancelo has been out of favour with Pep Guardiola since the World Cup. However, having recently signed a contract extension, it is shocking that City have taken the move to part ways with their full-back.
With the loan to Bayern Munich likely to be made permanent in the summer, City may need to be on the lookout for cover. Nathan Ake has performed well at full-back but further strength in that position could be vital for the Blues as they wish to overcome their packed schedule.