Manchester City youngster Adedire Mebude has spoken about his ambitions going forward and the impact Raheem Sterling had on him last season.
Mebude, 18, is having quite the season. Last weekend he registered four assists in City EDS’ 6-0 thrashing of Manchester United, and on Saturday he scored a stunning goal on his Scotland Under-21s debut.
The young attacker joined City’s youth ranks from Scottish side Rangers in 2020, before signing a professional contract with the Blues the following year.
After taking time to adjust to his new surroundings, London-born Mebude hasn’t looked back. Last season he was named the academy players’ player of the year, and he has carried that form into the current campaign with 13 goals and 14 assists in 28 academy appearances in all competitions.
Mebude has formed an effective partnership with fellow young attacker Carlos Borges, but it’s the senior attackers at the club that he has really enjoyed working with.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun, Medbude opened up on his admiration of former City star Raheem Sterling, who joined Chelsea last summer.
“I really liked Raheem Sterling. He was my man. I wanted to learn from him, Leroy Sane and Riyad Mahrez,” explained Mebude.
“I’ve trained with the first team a few times. They are out of this world. It’s surreal training with them and it’s great to be involved.
“I spoke to Sterling when he was there and he gave me a few tips. He was a young boy coming through at one time too, but excelled a bit quicker than me.
“He’s been through it all. He’d show me parts of his game he needed to improve and where he thought I could get better.
“It was really good to have that. My development is going well so far. I’m getting regular game time with the Under-21s. It’s always good to beat United 6-0, too. I got four assists and it was a very good game.”
City are earning a reputation for developing their own top talent, with the likes of Romeo Lavia, Gavin Bazunu and Sam Edozie all leaving the club last summer for decent fees.
One of the keys to the academy’s success is its integration with the first team, something Mebude finds particularly useful.
“The hierarchy come and watch, and it’s always good to perform in front of them and show what you’re about,” he said.
Unlike some of his EDS teammates, Mebude is yet to feature for the first team, but it’s surely just a matter of time.
“I’ve not had any dealings with Pep Guardiola yet, but it would be great if I did soon.”
