Liam Manning: Bristol City boss hopes to keep defender Rob Atkinson

On the future of Fally Mayulu, last summer’s big-money signing from Rapid Vienna, Manning was more coy – stating the forward’s return to the club was “possible”.

Mayulu, 22, started promisingly at Ashton Gate, scoring in both of his opening two Championship matches for the club, but then embarked on a barren run of 15 games without a goal before returning to the Austrian Bundesliga with Sturm Graz.

“It’s obviously not been a great loan,” Manning added. “He picked up some injuries and didn’t play like I know he would have wanted to but, until I hear differently, he will be returning here to pre-season.”

Excluding loanees, five City first-team players are out of contract at the end of next month, with the club announcing on Saturday that goalkeeper Stefan Bajic, midfielder Ayman Benarous and defender Kal Naismith will all be leaving.

Contract talks are ongoing with striker Nahki Wells and goalkeeper Lewis Thomas.

Goalkeeper Max O’Leary was one of three players to play every minute of league football for the Robins during the 2024-25 campaign, keeping 10 Championship clean sheets.

But Manning has done little to dispel rumours he is on the lookout for another goalkeeper in the summer window to provide competition for O’Leary.

“Yes, I think so, I think it will help,” Manning responded when asked about a new shot stopper. “Max, you have to remember, is early on in his career.”

Following loans at clubs including Bath City, Solihull Moors and Shrewsbury Town, it took until his 10th season as a professional for O’Leary, 28, to establish himself as the club’s number one after displacing Daniel Bentley, who then left for Wolves.

“Despite his age, he’s actually quite low in terms of the number of games [he’s played],” Manning said of O’Leary.

“For me, competition only benefits all of the players. I think someone pushing you will ultimately bring the best of you.”