Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says he is happy with Savinho’s impact since his arrival at the club earlier this summer.
The Brazilian started his second successive league fixture against Ipswich Town at the weekend and, when asked whether the winger had settled in quicker than expected, Guardiola replied:
“Yes. Not just the minutes, but he played really well. The second half dropped a little bit, but his contribution offensively and defensively was really good.”
Asked to assess Savinho’s performance against Ipswich on Saturday, fans on X were fulsome in their praise:
He was great… Perfect replacement for Mahrez.
— Mr. Angel (@OmusuguG) August 24, 2024
He was on fire
— FearlessSoulX (@AgentChitsinde) August 24, 2024
Fantastic display by the young Brazilian
— The Pivotal Trust Guide (@thepivotal_tru) August 24, 2024
10/10
— Donnie_Tesla (@cayusface) August 24, 2024
Wait a minute 🧐 pic.twitter.com/7dt5VnN14Z
— Irha (@Red_wine02) August 24, 2024
Absolutely world class ✨🥂
— She Calls Me Richie🎶 (@only1Richman) August 24, 2024
He is talented
— 𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐕𝐈 © (@Selvi_Vijay_) August 24, 2024
This guy is amazing 😻
— Alhaji Young Kpukumu (@KpukumuYoung) August 24, 2024
There is a more than a passing resemblance to Mahrez
Due to the fact that he favours his left foot and he is excellent with the ball at his feet, many have already drawn comparisons between Savinho and Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian himself has even mentioned it on X.
The 20-year-old will need to show more of an end product but he did demostrate great composure by laying on the ball to Kevin De Bruyne to score City’s second on Saturday.
City are expected to strengthen their forward line before deadline day
Despite scoring four against Ipswich and two on the opening day versus Chelsea, there isn’t a lot of depth up front, especially after the departure of Julian Alvarez.
It is expected that City will delve into the market ahead of Friday’s deadline to reinforce their options in the forward line.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
