Manchester City: Who will start for Pep Guardiola’s side after January signings?
City need a right-back but the two defenders they have signed so far are primarily centre-backs.
The 19-year-old Brazilian Reis transferred from Palmeiras for 29.6 million pounds, and the 20-year-old Kusanov from Uzbekistan joined for 33.6 million pounds.
But will they play immediately?
BBC reporter said: “The 19-year-old Reis has only made 22 appearances in Palmeiras. It is difficult to regard him as a future player, although he has the ability to play in the defense.” Stone.
“Kusanov has more experience and knows European and international football. However, he is seen more as a centre-back.
“Having said that, like Josko Gvardiol, no one is entirely sure what Pep’s thoughts are on Uzbekistan’s first Premier League player.
“Gvardiol came here as an international centre-back and is now the first-choice left-back, so nothing can be taken for granted for Guardiola.”
Palmeiras hopes to loan out right-footed player Reis after he was named to the Brazilian League’s best team this season.
But City insisted on an immediate transfer and said he would join Guardiola’s side this season.
“I’m sure he will adapt to Manchester City’s system without any difficulty because in the youth team he was always faced with dangerous games and had to be involved in organizing attacks while also defending effectively, even in one-on-one matches. .” Palmeiras Under-20s coach Lucas Andrade told BBC Sport.
Kusanov seems more likely to be available soon after his meteoric rise, but is still unlikely to make the team straight away.
He has played 24 Ligue 1 games for Lens since joining from Belarusian side Energetik-BGU in July 2023 for £84,000.
“His image is still rough and needs improvement,” said Luke Entwistle, editor-in-chief of Get France Football News.
“He is a diamond in the rough but worth a try because Guardiola can improve the details and tactical understanding. Ten years from now, €40 million may seem like a pittance.”
Lens’ British boss Will Steele said: “He is calm, powerful and very fast.
“He has very, very impressive potential. Cordier is a tank. His body and athleticism are both impressive.”
