Manchester City's recruitment revolution has been built on data as much as scouting instinct, according to BBC Sport, which was given access to the club's analytics operation behind their squad rebuild over the past 18 months.
The report details how City maintain a database of around 650,000 players worldwide, using it to identify targets and reshape a squad that has undergone significant turnover since their treble-winning peak. The data team's work has reportedly played a central role in guiding the club's transfer strategy, helping decision-makers assess options far beyond the traditional scouting network.
BBC Sport's investigation offers a rare look at how one of Europe's biggest clubs blends statistical analysis with recruitment decisions, though specific details of the methodology and personnel involved remain part of the fuller feature rather than summarised here. The piece underlines City's continued investment in data-driven football operations as they look to remain competitive amid an evolving squad.