Manchester City saw their long unbeaten Premier League run come to an end against Bournemouth on Saturday and attention will now turn to Sporting CP.
The Cherries sprung a big surprise at the Vitality Stadium, beating City 2-1.
Manchester City were on a 32-game unbeaten run, but came unstuck against Androni Iraola’s side, who were deserved winners.
Pep Guardiola admitted City couldn’t deal with Bournemouth’s intensity, and it was the kind of performance that other teams will now be looking to replicate.
Micah Richards also said City could not deal with Bournemouth’s pressing, and felt striker Erling Haaland was ‘smothered’ by the defenders.
It’s Sporting CP up next for City in the Champions League, and Pep Guardiola at least looks like he’ll be able to call on Savinho.
Savinho seen training again ahead of Sporting vs Man City
Savinho was taken off on a stretcher in midweek against Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup.
It was a sight that left every City fan very worried, considering how many injury problems Guardiola already has to deal with.
Thankfully though, Savinho’s issue turned out to be not as bad as it looked.
Guardiola said Savinho had avoided a fracture, and then named him on the bench for the game with Bournemouth. However, the Manchester City manager chose not to risk the Brazilian.
But on Sunday, City released some new pictures of training – and Savinho can be seen with the rest of the group.
It looks as though there is no lasting damage for the Brazilian, and one would imagine he will be playing some part against Sporting on Tuesday.
Guardiola will speak to the media tomorrow evening and will likely be asked about the South American.
- Who is Savinho? The ‘special’ starlet who tore up La Liga and is Man City’s first transfer of the summer
Savinho has already become an important player for Man City
The sight of Savinho training again will come as a big relief to City fans everywhere.
Savinho is still searching for his first goal in Manchester City colours, but there is no doubt he has made a very encouraging start to life at the Etihad Stadium since his £33 million move.
So far, he’s made five assists in 13 appearances, and he’s currently one of the few players in the squad who looks capable of creating on a regular basis.
With Kevin De Bruyne struggling with his fitness this season, Guardiola needs his new Brazilian star to try and stay fit.
Certainly at this moment in time and while Oscar Bobb remains on the sidelines, he is the top choice for that right wing position.
