In a recent report, Euro Sport has stated that Manchester City remain keen on sealing a return for Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz. It is believed that Pep Guardiola’s side has identified the Brazilian talent as a potential midfield option and are considering the possibility of bringing him back to the Etihad Stadium (via Euro Sport).
Luiz’s Impressive Form In The Premier League This Season
The South American sensation has made a solid start to this campaign as he has been responsible for putting in some commanding performances at the heart of Dean Smith’s midfield. Luiz has picked up two assists in eight appearances for the Villans this term on all fronts. The two-time Brazilian international has thrived playing as a defensive midfielder under the watchful eyes of Smith.
The 22-year-old has done a bit of everything at both ends of the pitch based on his average of 1.0 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 0.9 clearances, 0.7 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per game in the Premier League this season. He has usually distributed the ball immaculately out from the back as evidenced by his pass success rate of 83.1% in league football (stats via whoscored).
Luiz’s current contract at Villa Park is set to run out in the summer of 2023, so the West Midlands club will be under no pressure to sell him, which could be a significant stumbling block for Man City and their plans to seal a return for the player in January or next summer.
What Will The Brazilian Midfield Ace Bring To The Table?
Dean Smith has developed Luiz into a tough-tackling holding midfielder over the past 18 months. He is proficient at winning possession back for his side and can position himself well to clear the danger when required.
Furthermore, the Brazilian talent is an accurate passer and can create some decent chances for his teammates in the opposition half. However, at 22, he doesn’t have any European experience, which will be a slight cause for concern if Man City decide to sanction his return to the Etihad Stadium.
Is Luiz The Right Choice For Man City?
At the moment, Man City have got Rodri, Fernandinho and Ilkay Gundogan vying for one of the holding midfield spots in Guardiola’s starting XI. Hence, they have no immediate need for a player of Luiz’s skillset. However, Guardiola can benefit from bringing the Brazilian midfielder back to Manchester at the end of this campaign as he could serve as an ideal long-term successor to Fernandinho in the years to come.
Luiz could potentially become a future star and has enough Premier League experience in his locker to be a good squad player under Guardiola’s stewardship. All in all, the Villans playmaker will be an excellent long-term option for Man City to consider next summer.
