Savinho made his full Premier League debut for Manchester City in their opening day victory over Chelsea, and Pep Guardiola’s reaction was a mix of praise and critique.
Guardiola had high hopes for Savinho, often praising the young Brazilian’s versatility on both wings, especially opposite Jeremy Doku. Therefore, it was no surprise to see Savinho start on the left while Doku took the right flank in City’s season opener at Stamford Bridge.
Typically, Doku has been more comfortable on the left, while Savinho has expressed a preference for playing on the right. However, Guardiola’s strategy was clear: he wanted two dynamic wingers who could drive to the byline or cut inside on their stronger foot to create opportunities for Erling Haaland. Yet, from the outset, Guardiola appeared frustrated with how the system was unfolding.
Within just four minutes, Guardiola was already out of his seat, reacting to a missed opportunity when Doku’s cross sailed harmlessly over the goal. His dissatisfaction was evident as he continued to issue instructions to his midfielders, trying to fine-tune the game plan. Even when Savinho set up the opening goal—sending a precise pass to Bernardo Silva, who assisted Haaland—Guardiola seemed more focused on correcting issues than celebrating.
After the goal was confirmed by VAR, Guardiola made a tactical switch, moving Savinho to the right and Doku to the left. This adjustment brought immediate results, with Doku becoming more involved and testing Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez. Haaland also started receiving more service.
However, Savinho paid the price for the change. Despite his contribution to the goal, he was moved for the team’s benefit. Guardiola later suggested that the players initiated the switch themselves, though he admitted he had been considering it. “I know Savinho likes the right, and Doku the left,” Guardiola explained post-match. “But I wanted them attacking more towards the byline. When they switched, they played better. It taught me that I need to position players where they’re comfortable.”
Unfortunately, Savinho’s promising debut was cut short by a rough challenge just before halftime, forcing him off the pitch with an injury. He was later seen on the bench with an ice pack, casting doubt on his availability for next week’s match against Ipswich.
Despite the early exit, Guardiola’s post-match comments suggested he was impressed with Savinho’s potential. “The first impact has been really good,” he said, praising the winger’s performance against Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella. “Playing that well at Stamford Bridge in your first game in England shows he’s mature and has the personality to become a top player. That’s incredible news for us.”
Guardiola’s mix of tough love and praise indicates that he sees great potential in Savinho but also expects more as the season progresses. His reaction to the opening goal was a reminder that under his leadership, there’s always a bigger picture and room for improvement.
