Manchester City starlet Josh Wilson-Esbrand has joined French side Stade De Reims on a loan transfer until the end of the season.
The 20-year-old’s move to the Ligue 1 side has been officially announced, with the left-back set for another spell away from the club following his short period at Coventry City last season.
The Englishman has been handed the number 19 shirt at his new club, and it is expected that he will feature regularly for Reims, who found success with fellow Premier League loanee Folarin Balogun last season.
Reims have highlighted Wilson-Esbrand’s versatility as a strong asset to have, with the defender capable of playing as a full-back in a back four as well as a more advanced wing-back in a back three or five.
The left-back made 14 appearances for Coventry last season, and will hope to feature prominently this campaign.
What are Wilson-Esbrand’s strengths?
The youngster has made 28 appearances for Man City’s under-21 side, and was impressive going forward as an attacking full-back, registering four assists.
The former West Ham academy star joined City’s youth setup four years ago, and given the lack of natural left-backs in the senior squad, a fruitful loan in this upcoming season could give him a shot at first-team action at the Etihad Stadium.
Wilson-Esbrand is very strong on the ball, ranking highly amongst Championship and equivalent full-backs for his dribbling and ball-carrying ability, and his creativity from defence could suit him well if he was to join the Man City team in the future.
“Stade de Reims is a club that gives young people a chance. Everything is in place so that a young player feels good there and can flourish,” he stated upon confirming his loan move.
It will be interesting to keep an eye on his progress throughout the season, in what is an important year for his development as a player.
