Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has broken his silence on the club’s stance regarding Savinho’s future following an intense transfer pursuit from Tottenham Hotspur during the summer window.
Tottenham made a strong push to sign Savinho in the final weeks of the summer transfer window, reportedly tabling a £70 million offer for the 21-year-old winger. Spurs viewed him as a potential replacement for Son Heung-Min and James Maddison, who suffered an ACL injury in pre-season.
The young Brazilian joined Manchester City from CFG-owned side ESTAC Troyes last summer and quickly impressed, amassing over 3,000 senior minutes in his debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium. Despite City enduring one of their most challenging seasons in recent years, Savinho emerged as a standout performer.
Interest from Tottenham and City’s Firm Decision
Reports indicated that Savinho’s head was briefly turned by interest from North London, with Thomas Frank reportedly seeing him as a dynamic addition to his attack. However, the proposed move fell through as Manchester City Chief Executive Ferran Soriano rejected the offer internally, believing that Savinho’s potential ceiling was far too high to sanction a sale just one year after his arrival.
In response to the saga, Savinho signed a new long-term contract with Manchester City earlier this month, featuring a significant wage increase and a release clause for future negotiations.
Pep Guardiola’s Reaction to the Transfer Speculation
Speaking ahead of City’s upcoming Premier League clash with Aston Villa, Guardiola addressed questions about Savinho’s mindset following the transfer speculation.
“No. (Savinho signed a new contract now, so he’s clearly happy with the club) Yeah, absolutely. I think the club showed him how much we want him, how much we count on him, and I think it was good,” Guardiola told reporters. “The proof of that is the contract. If we didn’t trust him, we wouldn’t have done it.”
He continued, “Sometimes with agents in pre-season and during the transfer window, there’s noise — talk about more money here or there — but once the window closes, everyone focuses. And he is.”
Guardiola’s Verdict on City’s Transfer Policy
When asked if he personally blocked the transfer, Guardiola was clear: “Yeah, absolutely. But at the end, if he insists on leaving and the offer is good for the club, the decision always belongs to the club.”
He elaborated that final decisions are made by Txiki Begiristain, Hugo Viana, Ferran Soriano, and Khaldoon Al Mubarak, though his input is always considered. “I always give my opinion, but the last word belongs to the club. It has to be like that,” Guardiola said, emphasizing his respect for City’s leadership structure.
Savinho’s Rising Form Ahead of Aston Villa Clash
Following his impressive recent performances — including an assist for Erling Haaland against Everton and a Man of the Match display in the 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Villarreal — Savinho is expected to start in Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.
Guardiola’s trust in the Brazilian winger appears stronger than ever, marking him as one of City’s brightest attacking prospects for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Did Tottenham really bid £70 million for Savinho?
A: Yes, reports confirm that Tottenham Hotspur submitted a £70 million offer during the summer window, but Manchester City rejected it.
Q: Why did Manchester City refuse the offer?
A: City executives, led by Ferran Soriano, believed Savinho’s potential made the offer too low and decided he was not for sale.
Q: Has Savinho signed a new contract with Manchester City?
A: Yes, Savinho recently signed a new long-term contract including a pay rise and a release clause.
Q: What did Pep Guardiola say about Savinho’s focus after the transfer links?
A: Guardiola said Savinho is fully focused and happy at the club after signing his new contract.
Q: Is Savinho expected to start against Aston Villa?
A: Yes, based on his current form and recent performances, Savinho is likely to start in Sunday’s match.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s comments make it clear that Manchester City have no intention of parting ways with Savinho anytime soon. The Brazilian’s development, renewed contract, and growing influence underline his importance to Guardiola’s long-term plans. While Tottenham’s £70 million bid was significant, City’s faith in Savinho’s potential highlights their commitment to a sustainable, success-driven future at the Etihad Stadium.
