Vitor Reis Plans “Sit Down” Talks Over Manchester City Future
Manchester City could face a major decision regarding the future of Vitor Reis during the upcoming summer transfer window, and the Brazilian defender himself is aware of the situation.
The 20-year-old has been central to City’s long-term planning since his £29.6 million move from Palmeiras last year. The club has carefully managed his pathway through first-team exposure and a season-long loan at City Football Group side Girona.
Internally, reports suggest that Reis is considered a future pillar of Pep Guardiola’s defensive unit and a confirmed member of the 2026/27 squad, irrespective of changes among senior defenders over the next 12 months.
Despite this confidence, Manchester City’s current defensive issues—exacerbated by injuries to Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones—have created a complex backdrop. Guardiola has been forced to implement urgent solutions, including the recall of academy graduate Max Alleyne from Watford and the signing of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.
Competition for central defensive positions is therefore intensifying, and while Reis remains part of City’s long-term plans, his integration may not follow an accelerated timeline.
In a recent interview with Trivela, translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Reis commented on not being recalled to Manchester City amid the ongoing defensive injury crisis:
“I believe he [Pep Guardiola] is happy with the players he has, and I am also very happy in Girona.”
Looking ahead, as Manchester City finalise a deal for Marc Guehi and integrate Alleyne into the first-team squad, Reis added:
“At the end of the season, if it is not the case to return to City, I’ll sit down with my agents and my family and again do what I did before – try to find the best place for me at that moment.”
He also reflected on his current loan spell:
“The choice to go to Girona was very much because of this idea of learning how Manchester City play. They are different coaches [Michel and Pep Guardiola], because they are different people, but they have a similar idea. That also affected my choice. This will help me in the future, when I return to City.”
These comments underline that Vitor Reis remains fully aligned with Manchester City’s long-term vision while understanding the need for consistent first-team football at this crucial stage of his development.
City will continue to monitor his progress closely at Girona, with the possibility of a continued stay in La Liga if first-team opportunities at the Etihad Stadium remain limited. Pre-season involvement under Guardiola could also accelerate his integration into the senior squad, particularly given ongoing uncertainties surrounding players like Nathan Ake, John Stones, and Max Alleyne.
Conclusion
In summary, Vitor Reis represents a long-term investment for Manchester City, with the club carefully managing his development through Girona while keeping future defensive planning in mind. His willingness to align with City’s philosophy and gain valuable experience abroad ensures that when he returns, he could be a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s defensive setup. The summer transfer window may well define the next chapter of his journey at the Etihad Stadium.
FAQ
- Q: When will Vitor Reis return to Manchester City?
A: His return will be considered after the end of the 2025/26 season, depending on first-team opportunities and discussions with his representatives.
- Q: Why is Vitor Reis on loan at Girona?
A: City want him to gain regular first-team experience while learning the club’s playing philosophy, which will help him integrate into Pep Guardiola’s squad in the future.
- Q: Will Vitor Reis play immediately for City upon return?
A: That will depend on squad needs, pre-season performance, and competition in central defence against players like Max Alleyne, Nathan Ake, and John Stones.
- Q: How much did Manchester City pay for Vitor Reis?
A: City signed him from Palmeiras for £29.6 million last year.
