Manchester City are once again heavy favourites to defend their Premier League title even though they had dropped points against Tottenham Hotspur in the second gameweek. City had a decent transfer window as they added depth and options in some of their problematic areas. They would have ideally liked another centre back to come in, but they still look strong.
City recently re-signed Angelino from PSV Eindhoven to add more depth to their left-back spot. Benjamin Mendy was supposed to be the regular first-choice left-back at the club, but he has spent more time on the treatment table than on the pitch in the last two years. The Citizens also parted ways with Fabian Delph this summer who used to fill in as a fullback from time to time.
Filipe Luis reveals his links with Manchester City
Recently former Premier League winner Filipe Luis went on to reveal that he had an offer from Manchester City to join them on a free transfer this summer. The move didn’t work out, and he went on to join Flamengo in his homeland. Luis recently said (Globo Esporte), ”From January until March I had an offer from Manchester City, but it didn’t work out.”
The 34-year-old defender is known for his stint with Atletico Madrid where he emerged as a mainstay in Simeone’s back four. The Brazilian had a brief stint with Chelsea where he made 26 appearances for them in all competitions. Luis has been part of the La Liga and the Premier League winning side, and he could have added a lot of experience to City’s backline if the move would have gone through.
A big miss for Guardiola?
The fullback made 27 appearances in the La Liga last season and even played in the Champions League. He might be 34, but he is still going strong, and Luis was also part of Brazil’s squad which won the Copa America recently.
We think that he could have been a decent option for the next two years. Defensively, Luis is composed and astute as he reads the dangers well. The Brazilian is also comfortable with the ball at his feet.
However, the Citizens should be well covered as the emergence of Oleksandr Zinchenko has solved Guardiola’s left-back woes. Even though the Ukranian is a midfielder by trade, he has slotted in well. Mendy is currently close to coming back so once he becomes fit, Guardiola will hope that the Frenchman can continue for a long time.
Luis would have been a decent addition on a free transfer, but the Citizens have already done well by bringing back Angelino. Zinchenko’s performance means that they are well covered at left-back.
