The mood around the Etihad is upbeat entering the new campaign thanks to Pep Guardiola's arrival. But the Blues still have several questions swirling.
1- How will the veterans settle?
David Silva and Yaya Toure are both entering their seventh campaigns with the club and have perhaps stylistic differences in how to play the game from Pep Guardiola. Toure's seemingly imminent departure hasn't yet occurred meaning that perhaps he's going to continue to be a force in midfield. Fernandinho has already been singled out for his versatility by Guardiola and Aleksandar Kolarov might still have a role as a dead-ball specialist. But some changes are almost certain to occur between now and the end of August when the transfer window shuts.
2- The fullbacks
The aging fullback situation hasn't been addressed this summer although it should be noted John Stones can play right back if needed. Chances are the Blues can get by this season with the fullback corps but need some cover and changes entering next season.
3- Will MCFC improve against top sides?
The Blues have won just once in the last six meetings with Liverpool and have gone three games winless versus Manchester United. When you consider this isn't exactly the most glorious era of Manchester United or Liverpool history those numbers are simply unacceptable. Last season the Blues lost twice to Spurs and failed to defeat Arsenal, Leicester or West Ham in addition to Liverpool and Manchester United. That sort of return against top sides is simply unacceptable. Is this a mentality issue?
4- Raheem Sterling's confidence?
Beaten down by critics in the British press thanks to England's poor Euro 2016, Sterling has become a punching bag. But he's still as lethal a change of pace player that any top side has in England. Guardiola will lift Sterling no doubt and chances are he will have an excellent season especially with increased competition in wide areas from new signings Nolito and Leroy Sane.