Gerhard Struber is expected to be named as the new Bristol City manager following Liam Manning’s decision to leave his post at Ashton Gate for the managerial vacancy at Championship rivals Norwich City.
The Daily Telegraph’s Midlands football reporter, John Percy understands the Austrian, who has previous second-tier experience with Barnsley, is believed to be the club’s first choice, with previous bookmakers favourite Rob Edwards emerging as a strong candidate for the vacancy at Middlesbrough instead after Michael Carrick’s departure.
The change in the dugout at Ashton Gate is expected to be the catalyst for a number of tweaks both in terms of personnel on the transfer front and tactics out on the pitch with a new formation, as Struber, the man who inspired Barnsley’s great escape in 2019/20, gets to work in trying to get the Robins into the promised land of the Premier League after missing out on promotion last term via the Championship play-offs semi-final against Sheffield United.
But how can we expect Bristol City to line-up next season? Here, with the help of AI’s transfer forecast - we attempt to predict next term’s starting line-up - and it includes a number of exciting signings including a bold move for a Coventry City ace.
1. GK: Max O'Leary
Max O'Leary played every match last season and was a consistent high performer in a team that finished inside the top six. AI claims his experience makes him an automatic starter although Gerhard Struber may look to add competition on the bench. | Getty Images
2. RB: George Tanner
A solid performer, who racked up 34 appearances last season with two assists. George Tanner is expected to remain in the right back spot this term as the team moves to a 4-2-3-1 formation. | Getty Images
3. CB: Luke McNally
A 2024 signing that impressed that impressed when fit and even chipped in with three goals. Luke McNally is expected to remain a key part of the defence next term. AI claims his experience and ball-playing ability make him a perfect fir for Struber's system. | Getty Images
4. CB: George Campbell (signing)
AI expects Gerhard Struber to use his knowledge of the MLS to his advantage with the signing of USA international George Campbell. He came through the ranks at Atalanta United and is currently a regular for CF Montréal. | Getty Images