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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Pep Guardiola to make four changes, £54m player to start… Man City predicted line-up vs Arsenal
Manchester City’s Anticipated Starting XI vs Arsenal
Injury Updates and Tactical Adjustments
Ahead of the clash against Arsenal, Guardiola faces injury concerns and tactical decisions.
Defensive Adjustments
- Injuries: Guardiola confirmed John Stones and Kyle Walker’s absence due to injuries. However, Ederson’s recovery is promising.
- Possible Adjustments: Manuel Akanji might replace the injured Kyle Walker at right-back, with Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake likely retaining their positions.
Midfield Dynamics
- Midfield Stability: Rodri is expected to anchor the midfield, while Bernardo Silva’s experience could see him start alongside Kevin De Bruyne, who missed the last match due to injury.
Attacking Configurations
- Flank Dynamics: Phil Foden could shift to the right flank, possibly with Bernardo Silva moving into midfield.
- Forward Line: Erling Haaland is anticipated to lead the line, aiming to capitalize on opportunities against Arsenal’s defense.
Possible Inclusion of Jack Grealish
- Fitness Assessment: Guardiola noted Jack Grealish’s positive training, hinting at his potential inclusion.
- Impactful Presence: Grealish’s experience in big games could see him replace Doku on the left wing.
Predicted Lineup: Ederson, Akanji, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodri, Bernardo, De Bruyne, Foden, Haaland, Grealish
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£15m Man City player was simply outstanding in 1-0 win over Brentford
Manchester City secured a hard-fought victory against Brentford at the Etihad Stadium, closing the gap to just one point behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Despite City’s dominance in possession and numerous chances, they faced a resilient Brentford side that proved difficult to break down, with goalkeeper Mark Flekken thwarting their attempts.
Erling Haaland eventually broke the deadlock, securing the crucial goal for City. The match required patience, as Brentford adopted a defensive approach, camping in their own half for most of the game. Ivan Toney and Frank Onyeka posed occasional threats on the counter, but City’s persistence paid off.
In a game where City’s center-backs found themselves in advanced positions due to Brentford’s deep defensive line, Manuel Akanji, preferred over Nathan Ake on the left, delivered an impressive attacking performance. Akanji, usually a center-back, ventured forward, showcased excellent ball distribution, and tested Flekken with a remarkable curling shot in the first half.
Despite his limited experience in the left-back position, Akanji looked comfortable, completing an outstanding 106 out of 108 passes (98%), making 123 touches (second only to Rodri with 124), and contributing three clearances and two interceptions, according to Sofascore.
Akanji’s commendable performance on the left side, a position he rarely occupies, deserves recognition. While his overall season may not have matched the high standards set in the previous campaign, his adaptability and effectiveness in this role could be a positive sign for City’s future strategies, potentially prompting Pep Guardiola to explore this option more frequently.
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Steve Bruce shares what Pep Guardiola told him about ‘unbelievable’ Man City star back in 2020
In 2020, Steve Bruce disclosed insights from a conversation with Pep Guardiola regarding a standout player at Manchester City. With Guardiola’s extensive tenure at the club since 2016, he has overseen numerous player transitions. Yet, it’s intriguing to learn what the esteemed City manager shared with a former Premier League manager about one of his current talents.
Bruce shares what Guardiola told him about City star back in 2020
During a chat with BBC 5 Live Sport, Bruce reflected on an exchange he had with Pep before a game against his team. Pep expressed confidence in Foden, mentioning they didn’t need to replace Silva because they had a talented youngster in him. Bruce recalled this conversation from four or five years ago, marveling at Foden’s remarkable growth. Despite his youth, Foden has already secured multiple Premier League titles, a testament to his talent.
Silva’s departure from the Etihad Stadium in 2019 marked the end of a decade-long stint, during which he made 436 appearances, scoring 77 goals and providing 140 assists, while clinching four Premier League titles.
Foden’s rise to prominence, despite debuting in November 2017, underscores Guardiola’s belief in his abilities. Silva, too, endorsed Foden, affirming Manchester City’s future was secure with him in the lineup. Foden’s current season stats, boasting 21 goals and 10 assists in 44 games, validate the trust placed in him by Silva and Guardiola.
