According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester City have reportedly identified Bayern Munch forward Serge Gnabry as a potential replacement for Raheem Sterling. It is understood that Gnabry’s talks with the German giants have not gone smoothly over a contract extension and the German winger’s wage demands are not being met. The Sky Blues remain on hold and will pursue a deal if Gnabry wants to make an exit.
Gnabry’s Impressive Career For Bayern Munich
Serge Gnarby has made 171 appearances for the Bavarians over the course of six years, scoring 64 goals and producing 40 assists across all fronts. The German forward had an extraordinary campaign last season by contributing 19 goals in 34 Bundesliga appearances, playing a crucial part in Bayern’s tenth successive title win.
The Stuttgart-born sensation has performed consistently on the attacking end of the field after averaging 1.4 tackles, 2.0 shots, 1.4 key passes, 1.9 dribbles and 0.5 crosses per game in the German top flight. He has also been impressive in distributing the ball to his teammates after completing 82% of his attempted passes in the German first division (Stats from WhoScored).
Perfect Replacement For Ex-Manchester City Forward Sterling?
Raheem Sterling had been a key player for the Etihad Club since his arrival six years ago. He has contributed on the attacking end in every season and the same can be said for Gnabry who has performed exceptionally for Bayern over the course of his career.
The German international can make use of his pace to get in behind the opposition’s defence and has got the vision to find his teammates in front of the goal. Furthermore, he remains a decent finisher as he can strike the ball with power and accuracy, and doesn’t mind taking a shot at the goal from a distance.
The 27-year-old is primarily a right-sided wide player but remains versatile enough to feature on the left flank or operate as a secondary striker down the middle if needed. He could certainly add to the attacking prowess of Pep Guardiola’s new frontline boasting Erling Haaland. He would definitely make a difference during tough games and fits the bill perfectly as a replacement for Sterling.
However, the underlying problem due to which Sterling chose to move away has been regular playtime after Guardiola brought in attacking reinforcements. This would also remain a hurdle for Gnabry as he would demand to be featured regularly and poses a significant problem for Guardiola. The Spanish tactician will have to come up with a rotation policy that would utilise all the talents brought into Etihad Stadium.
