The 21-year-old, currently on loan at Girona, has consistently been seen as a promising talent, and truth be told, he has proven himself in Spain.
Yet, the lingering question has always been whether Couto could ultimately excel at the Etihad Stadium.
Pedro Porro, another skilled right-back signed by Girona in 2017 before his transfer to City in 2019, found himself loaned out to Real Valladolid and Sporting CP before being sold to the latter in 2022.
Despite Porro’s evident talent, showcased in Portugal and later for Tottenham Hotspur, he fell short of meeting the standards for the Sky Blues.
Yan Couto expresses a “dream” to play under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. However, the Brazilian’s situation may differ from that of the Spurs defender, as a report in late January suggested he is seen as the long-term successor to Kyle Walker at City.
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Phil Foden now explains why he loves playing as a 10 more than any other position for Man City
Foden has had an exceptional season, stepping up admirably in the absence of crucial teammates. With 18 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances across various competitions, he has solidified his position as a pivotal player under Pep Guardiola.
The 23-year-old consistently dazzles fans with his technical prowess, showcasing his skills in nearly every match. Notably, Foden’s commendable work ethic hasn’t gone unnoticed.
This season, Foden has frequently operated as a ‘number 10’, a role he openly expresses fondness for. He recently shared why he finds this position particularly enjoyable.
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Gary Lineker can’t believe what he’s heard from Jude Bellingham after Man City game
Lineker’s Surprise at Bellingham’s Comments
Introduction: Former footballer and pundit Gary Lineker expresses disbelief at comments made by Jude Bellingham following the recent Champions League clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid.
The Match Recap:
- Manchester City and Real Madrid drew 1-1 in the second-leg quarter-final tie.
- City lost on penalties after extra time, allowing Real Madrid to advance to the semifinals.
Bellingham’s Remarks Critiqued:
- Lineker highlights Bellingham’s praise for Real Madrid’s tactical freedom under Ancelotti.
- Lineker questions the notion of “freedom” given Real Madrid’s defensive approach resembling that of a less attacking team like Luton.
- Lineker suggests that while Real Madrid defended well, they were fortunate not to lose the game.
Real Lack of Freedom Against City:
- Despite Bellingham’s comments, statistical analysis reveals City’s dominance.
- City had 67% possession, 92% passing accuracy, and 33 shots compared to Real’s 33% possession, 82% passing accuracy, and eight shots.
- The stark contrast in performance suggests Bellingham and Real Madrid had limited freedom on the field, with City dictating play throughout.
Conclusion:
- Lineker’s surprise at Bellingham’s comments stems from the stark reality of City’s dominance over Real Madrid during the match, contradicting Bellingham’s assertion of tactical freedom.
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Pep Guardiola’s strongest Man City XI for pivotal Arsenal clash with five players currently injured
Manchester City is amidst a remarkable season, poised for a potential back-to-back treble, an unprecedented feat. However, achieving this goal won’t come easy, especially with the intense competition in the Premier League title race. Pep Guardiola’s squad finds themselves locked in a tight battle with Liverpool and Arsenal.
Currently trailing the top two teams by just one point, City faces a crucial opportunity to surpass Arsenal in the standings during their upcoming clash on Sunday, a match of immense significance.
Having suffered defeat against Arsenal earlier in the season, City anxiously awaits the fitness status of five key players leading up to the match.
