Manchester City: Preseason squad rankings

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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 26: Goalkeeper of Manchester City Joe Hart in action during the UEFA Champions League semi final first leg match between Manchester City FC and Real Madrid at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2016 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images) /

7. Joe Hart

Hart has been so inconsistent lately and was one of the most disappointing players for England this summer. If his country was able to overcome Iceland, his starting role would have been highly in question after a few mistakes. Tough summer for English Manchester City players.

The Englishman is obviously still City’s first choice keeper, but comes into preseason further down the squad rankings than he’s normally accustomed.

Hart started 35 games in the league last season and only missed three due to an injury. The 29-year-old isn’t close to losing his place at City but does need to reverse his form and find consistency after a difficult summer.

The keeper places above Sterling, Fernandinho and Iheanacho as he’ll be part of the team’s spine and be in the team all of the time. He’s behind those who he’s behind because of recent performances, though he certainly has room to grow on this ranking.

Hart has made 347 appearances since his debut in 2006-07 and has made more than 30 appearances in the league each of the past six seasons. He should have an easier time racking up clean sheets this season with the amount of possession Guardiola’s side will hold as well as (hopefully) a healthy Vincent Kompany which boosts the defense immensely. They look lost without the Belgian.

The first few games will be important for Hart to reestablish his class after the tough summer.

Next: 6. Ilkay Gundogan

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