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Rio Ferdinand believes it will be a massive task for Manchester City to retain the treble after Kevin De Bruyne's injury and the departures of Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez

Rio Ferdinand believes that it will be 'a huge ask' for Manchester City to retain the treble.

City achieved the incredible feat of winning the Premier League, the Champions League and the FA Cup last season, becoming just the second English side to do so following Manchester United's success in 1999.

However, there are problems for City in the early stages of the new campaign. Ilkay Gundogan, who captained City to their treble triumph, has joined Barcelona, while Riyad Mahrez has signed for Al-Ahli.

To add to the difficulties facing Pep Guardiola, midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has been ruled out until for three to four months due to a hamstring issue.