Melbourne City

Were dumped out of the A-League Elimination Finals by bitter rivals Melbourne Victory last season - a fitting way to end a disappointing campaign. Unusually, they've struggled in the transfer market this time around. They weren't able to persuade star striker MacLaren to sign a contract extension, and nor could they tempt Arslan to stay - two of their most dangerous attacking players in recent years. Both will be sorely missed, especially as MacLaren's replacement is supposed to be wonderkid Caputo, who will not play in 2024 due to a bad injury. They've signed some decent players but have had to be somewhat controversial to do so. Signing Israeli midfielder Cohen at a time when there are growing pockets of anti-Israel around the globe could backfire on them, as could signing a player (Ferreyra) who has been playing in Russia, given the controversy surrounding their invasion of Ukraine. City are no longer in a position to simply deal without good players like the two they've signed. Kuen has joined, and Tilio's loan period has been extended so they'll have some good creativity, assuming Tilio can stay fit. Fernandez leaving isn't an issue with Behich back from his loan spell. Trewin will replace Reis at the back but having lost Good too, it's generally considered that they don't have enough options in defence now. Atkinson is back but he's a full-back. A good signing though, of course. It's not unfair to suggest that City have lost more than they've gained. Some reliable mainstays have left the club, and they've taken some real risks in replacing them. They do have a good academy so it's likely one or two will be promoted to regulars but again, they're taking risks for a team that is supposed to compete for major honours, and it's unfamiliar territory for them. Their big problem this season will be goals. Even when Caputo is back, there's no telling what condition he'll actually be in. Tilio is injury-prone, others need to settle in. May have to consider playing Leckie centrally now but last season they were going the opposite way, dropping him deeper into midfield, so it's a bit up in the air there. Lopane can play up front but they prefer him to operate in wide positions. Sulemani is back following a horrendous injury but it's a lot to put on his shoulders too - he's still young. Could really struggle at the back unless the newbies hit the ground running - several changes + new arrivals = complications. Central midfield will screen them well with Jeggo there but there'll still most likely be problems. Fuse that with dinosaur Vidmar being in charge (he has no idea how to get the best out of this group) and it's likely City will disappoint this season. Likely key players - Jeggo, Leckie, Tilio.