Guardiola Keen To Retain Savinho Amid Spurs Interest, But Won’t Block Exit
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said he wants to keep winger Savinho at the Etihad for “many years”, but reiterated that he will not stop any player from leaving if they wish to move.
Savinho, who made 48 appearances in his debut season for City last year, has drawn interest from Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank, especially after the departure of Son Heung-min and a long-term injury to James Maddison.
Guardiola clarified that neither Savinho nor goalkeeper Ederson — linked with Turkish side Galatasaray — has expressed a desire to leave. Ederson’s speculation comes after City re-signed goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley in the summer.
Speaking ahead of City’s Premier League opener against Wolves on Saturday, Guardiola told reporters:
“If they want to leave, they will come to me. If they want to leave, they will knock on my door. Tottenham or any other club who wants a player should call the club.”
The Spaniard admitted Savinho still needs to sharpen his final decisions but praised the youngster’s potential:
“At 21 years old, with the potential he has, he is an extraordinary player. Otherwise, he would not have played more than 3,000 minutes last season. Hopefully he stays with us for many years, but in the end the desire of the players is above everything.”
Savinho is, however, set to be out for “a few weeks” after picking up an injury in a pre-season friendly against Palermo.
Meanwhile, Guardiola confirmed that midfielder Rodri, who missed much of last season with a knee injury, is close to returning but will be managed carefully:
“Rodri is so close to coming back but it is important his knee is perfect. What we don’t want is for him to return and then step back. The competition is too demanding for that.”
City have also allowed Jack Grealish to join Everton, with Guardiola admitting the winger needed more playing time after struggling in recent seasons despite playing a key role in the 2023 treble-winning campaign.
“I wish him all the best at a traditional club like Everton and hopefully he can play, play, and play,” Guardiola said.
Another exit could be that of James McAtee, who is close to finalising a move to Nottingham Forest.
