While Manchester City lost their first friendly of the summer 4-3 to Celtic there were plenty of positives to come out of the game for Pep Guardiola’s side. Oscar Bobb impressed showing that he has developed as a player. Another positive for the world champions was the second-half performance of Argentinian midfielder Maximo Perrone. Based on his display against Celtic could there be a role for the young midfielder in the Manchester City squad for next season?
So, so good from Oscar Bobb! 😮💨🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/QgtMS2aESu
— Manchester City (@ManCity) July 24, 2024
The second-half performance from Maximo Perrone was full of promise. He scored City’s second after a fine piece of play from Oscar Bobb teed up the Argentinian midfielder. It was a classy finish from Perrone and one that resembled that of former Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan. But on top of that Perrone was calm and poised in possession. He showed that he has the game and temperament to become a contributor for the world champions in time. But is there a possibility that it could be this season that we see Perrone become a part of Pep Guardiola’s squad?
Maximo Perrone vs Celtic:
45 Minutes Played
1 Goal
20 Touches
15 Accurate Passes
100% Pass Accuracy
2 Key Passes
2 Ground Duels Won
1 Shot On Target pic.twitter.com/MxZZPA4j8C— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) July 24, 2024
As it stands currently Manchester City is well stocked for options in midfield. Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Rodri, Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes would all be ahead of Perrone in the pecking order. Breaking into Pep Guardiola’s plans for the 24/25 season would be no easy task for the Argentinian midfielder. But based on his cameo performance against Celtic he is developing into a player Manchester City could rely upon. However, that time may not arrive just yet. Perrone needs minutes and games to further develop his game. He may not get that opportunity this season if he remains at Manchester City. So while his quality is apparent there may not be a consistent opportunity just yet for Perrone in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
What is apparent is the time Perrone spent at Las Palmas last season on loan has seen him mature as a player. That maturity was on full display during City’s defeat to Celtic. Perhaps another loan spell this season will further aid Perrone’s game. But it is apparent that Manchester City have a potential player in the Argentinian midfielder. But there may not be a role in Pep Guardiola’s squad for Perrone during the 24/25 season. But there may be in the future if he continues to develop his game.
