Manchester City have become used to saying tearful farewells to club legends with long service to the club, in recent years.
For a club often portrayed as a bunch of mercenaries loyal only to the pound sign, they have a lot of players who stay, thrive and then leave with hearts which will always have a Blue tinge.
Pablo Zabaleta, Yaya Toure, David Silva and Vincent Kompany have all had fond goodbyes in recent years – and next summer there could be two more legends departing, with Fernandinho and Sergio Aguero both at the end of their current contracts.
In all, the Blues have five players whose contracts are due to expire in 2021, meaning some decisions will have to be take in the next few months as to whether they should renew or release.
Here are the five players and what we think should happen:
Scott Carson
The third-choice goalkeeper is on loan from Derby, where his contract – as well as City’s loan deal - expires next summer. He is an experienced back-up and as long as the reflexes and fitness remain, he could be offered a deal.
Future – see how it goes
Eric Garcia
This one is likely to be taken out of City’s hands, and Barcelona could even dive back in with a reduced offer in January after the clubs failed to agree a fee.
Garcia wants to go to the Nou Camp and, unless he has a change of heart, that’s where he will go unless City talk him round.
Future – likely to leave next summer
Taylor Harwood-Bellis
Pep Guardiola likes the 18-year-old centre back so a new contract would be the most likely way to go.
One for the future, like Tommy Doyle, who just landed a five-year deal.
Future - should get a new deal
Fernandinho
Currently on a one-year contract extension offered as a result of his excellent contribution last season.
Supremely fit and dedicated, it would be no surprise if he earns himself the offer of another season. Future – depends on form and fitness.
Sergio Aguero
City have already said the legend will make his own decision on when he leaves, but much will depend on fitness after a four-month injury absence.
Future – if he is fit and firing, should get another year
