Manchester City make decision on future of Savio ahead of official Etihad Stadium arrival

Officials at Manchester City have reportedly made their decision on the future of Savio, ahead of the Brazilian’s formal arrival as an Etihad Stadium player.

It was reported back in early February that Sávio to Manchester City was a completed transfer, with the Premier League champions having prepared all necessary documentation for the Brazilian’s formal arrival in July.

However since then, there has been plenty of speculation as to whether Pep Guardiola and his coaching staff would look to integrate the Brazil international into the first-team squad, despite the widespread belief that Etihad bosses were on the lookout for a wide-forward.

The common understanding was that the 20-year-old would join Manchester City on their pre-season tour of the United States later this summer, with a decision made on whether the forward would be loaned out based on his performances with the first-team.

But ahead of that link-up with the Etihad club for a four-game tour of the eastern coast of the USA, reports have now emerged revealing somewhat of a change of direction from the part of Manchester City decision makers.

That is according to the information of journalist Rômulo Giacomin, who reports that Savio will not be sent out on loan by Manchester City for the forthcoming 2024/25 campaign, and will instead remain at the Etihad Stadium.

It is explained that last December, there was the idea of including the Brazil international on Manchester City’s pre-season tour of the United States, before sending the player out on a loan deal for the season.

However, the 20-year-old’s ‘evolution’ has seen Manchester City change their minds on the player, and the report confirms that Savio will star for the club in the Premier League and across their competitions next season.

The forward, who is understood to have cost Manchester City a fee in the region of £40 million, was integral to a historic campaign recorded by fellow City Football Group side Girona in La Liga last season.

Starring for Michel’s side whilst on a season-long loan from ESTAC Troyes, Savio offered nine goals and a further 10 assists in 37 appearances across La Liga matches, providing a healthy chunk of goalscoring output to contribute to UEFA Champions League qualification.

Savio’s performances have also aided his integration and reputation at senior international team level, with the player becoming a firm cog in the Copa America-chasing operation with Brazil this summer.