- Savinho has been linked with a move away from Man City
- The Brazilian signed a long-term contract last year
- Pep Guardiola’s departure could affect his future
Manchester City appeared to settle Savinho’s future last year, but the winger is already facing fresh uncertainty ahead of the summer transfer window.
Tottenham Hotspur showed interest in signing Savinho before the 2025/26 campaign. However, Man City successfully managed to retain the winger last year.
The Sky Blues underlined their faith in the Brazilian in October, handing him a new contract. Likewise, the new deal keeps him at the Etihad until the summer of 2031.
Regardless, the 22-year-old has struggled to secure a consistent starting role this season. Savinho managed to play only 1,502 minutes across competitions this campaign.
Likewise, the lack of playtime has now opened the door to renewed questions regarding the Brazilian’s future.
Roberto De Zerbi opportunity reportedly appeals to Savinho
According to Transfer Insider, Savinho is keen on the idea of joining Tottenham Hotspur this summer. He is also prepared to push for a move away from Man City, as per the report.
The media outlet further claims that Spurs would be able to offer the 22-year-old a bigger role than he has had at the Etihad this season.
It is also suggested that the opportunity to work under Roberto De Zerbi appeals to Savinho. The Italian took charge earlier this year and saved the club from relegation to the Championship.
Likewise, despite securing the winger last season, Guardiola’s departure could now remove one of the major obstacles to a possible sale.
It was previously reported that the former City boss was reluctant to let the winger leave, as he wanted the Brazilian for backup.
Savinho could suit Enzo Maresca but face competition at Man City
Savinho’s limited role this season does not necessarily mean that he would be surplus requirements under Enzo Maresca.
During his time at Leicester City and Chelsea, Maresca regularly used wingers to hold the width in possession. The Italian also uses inverted full-backs to create central overloads behind them.
That structure is designed to free wide players in dangerous areas, either by switching play towards them or by creating space for them to attack defenders.
In theory, that could suit Savinho, but he still faces tough competition at Man City. Jeremy Doku and Antoine Semenyo have been the trusted wide starters in several of the club’s big matches under Guardiola.
Likewise, Semenyo gives City an established scoring threat from wide areas while Doku remains one of the most dangerous ball carriers in the Premier League.
De Zerbi move may offer Savinho a clearer tactical role
The reported appeal of working under Roberto De Zerbi is understandable considering Savinho’s age. At 22, the youngster is searching for opportunities that suit his style and give him maximum playing time.
Likewise, De Zerbi’s teams are often built around drawing opponents forward through short build-up play before quickly finding a wide attacker in space.
His wingers also stay high, receive the ball near the touchline and attack defenders once the opposition shape has been stretched.
This style is closer to Savinho’s strengths than a role based on limited minutes from the bench. Nevertheless, the move won’t be a straight walk into the starting line-up.
However, De Zerbi has barely had the chance to establish his preferred attacking hierarchy. Hence, making his way to the starting lineup will be easier than displacing already established attackers at City.
