There were plenty of positives for Manchester City to take from their 2-nil win over Chelsea. The champions were in fine form as they successfully navigated a tricky opening-day fixture. Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis shone for Pep Guardiola’s side. Erling Haaland looks in ominous form after completing a full pre-season. But another positive for the champions was the showing from Savinho. Despite only playing the first half, the Brazilian international showed he well and truly belongs at Manchester City based on his first-half performance against Chelsea.
What stands out in Savinho’s game is his poise in possession. The young winger wasn’t star-struck by playing against Chelsea. He immediately looked a threat whenever he was on the ball. His dribbling ability and the ability to beat a man was on full display throughout the first half. Once he was switched to City’s right wing after starting on the left he grew into the game. He gave Marc Cucurella a torrid time before a knee injury forced the substitution of the Brazilian at half-time.
Savinho vs Chelsea
45 minutes played
— ِ (@JXComps) August 18, 2024
As far as Premier League debuts go Savinho showed more than enough to show he belongs at Manchester City. For a player so young to immediately make an impact at a club the size of Manchester City speaks volumes of Savinho’s temperament. He added something new to City’s attack. It is a tantalising prospect to ponder as the Brazilian international adjusts to Pep Guardiola’s demands. But as far as first impressions in the Premier League go Savinho made a lasting one even though it only lasted 45 minutes.
With Jeremy Doku and Savinho on the wings, Pep Guardiola has two potent wingers at his disposal. Savinho looks to be a more refined version of Jeremy Doku. Doku is a dangerous threat with the ball at his feet and a nightmare to defend one-on-one. He gave Chelsea fits for the entire game at Stamford Bridge. Though at times, his final delivery and decision-making were lacking. Savinho looks to be a step ahead of Doku in this regard. At times Savinho linked up well with Kevin De Bruyne and his teammates. In time Erling Haaland will prosper from Savinho’s quality delivery. The pair have the makings of a devastating pairing out wide for Manchester City.
The only downside of Savinho’s debut was the knee injury he suffered just before half-time. But post-game Pep Guardiola played down any concerns over the injury. Guardiola told the media post-game: “Some disturbance in the knee. He said he knows it from the past. He knows how to solve it. It’s a little bit about the lack of preparation. It’s not a big problem.”
Savinho showed he well and truly belongs at Manchester City. It was a promising start to his time at the club. Based on what he showed on Sunday the champions may have another Riyad Mahrez-type player on their hands. That is an exciting proposition going forward for the world champions.
