Young Samba Star Savio Set for Etihad Arrival, But Can He Crack Guardiola’s Code?
Manchester City are primed to welcome Brazilian youngster Savio to the Etihad this summer, but the biggest question mark isn’t his talent – it’s where he’ll fit into Pep Guardiola’s tactical puzzle.
While concerns linger about transfers within the City Football Group network, Savio seems to be arriving at a fair market price. This 20-year-old winger brings a unique skillset to the table, one that could potentially challenge Guardiola’s recent preference for more possession-oriented attackers.
Savio’s a throwback to the days of Leroy Sane – a player who thrives on direct runs and dazzling footwork. In fact, he outshone both Sane and Doku in dribbles last season, only falling short of Mohammed Kudus. But Savio’s not just about pace, he contributed a healthy dose of goals and assists to fire Girona into the Champions League.
Even if a starting role might be a stretch initially, his talent is undeniable. His performances even earned him a call-up to the Brazil squad, where he showcased his abilities against a Costa Rica team determined to park the bus. While he couldn’t break the deadlock in his 20-minute cameo, he certainly impressed with his dribbling skills and ability to win duels.
Here’s where things get interesting for City: Savio primarily played on the left for Girona. Unfortunately for him, that flank at City is already overflowing with talent – Foden, Doku, and Grealish are all comfortable there.
The good news? The right wing is a wide-open position. Doku was initially intended to play there, but quickly gravitated towards the left. Foden and Bernardo have filled the gap on occasion, but Guardiola often utilizes Kyle Walker to push up that entire flank.
If Savio wants to convince Pep to keep him in the first team, his best bet seems to be mastering the right side. Cutting inside on his favored left foot would create a dynamic attacking duo with a teammate mirroring his movement on the opposite wing. Of course, Guardiola values tactical flexibility, but for Savio, immediate playing time is most likely on the right.
Can the young Brazilian adapt to a new position and impress the demanding Guardiola? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – Savio’s arrival injects some exciting pace and unpredictability into City’s attack.
