How Savinho can truly live up to Riyad Mahrez comparison at Man City after contract update
Manchester City will be looking to continue their good start to the Premier League season away against Brentford.
Man City will be aiming to beat Brentford with the help of Erling Haaland, who wowed Glen Hoddle in their 2-2 draw away at Monaco in the Champions League.
Rodri’s injury woes have continued, with Pep Guardiola saying that he doesn’t expect the Man City midfielder to be fully fit until the summer.
Football Insider understands that Man City are looking to enter contract talks with Rodri as the Spaniard’s latest injury update emerges.
Man City’s Savinho extends his contract after Riyad Mahrez comparison
Savinho had been linked with a move to Tottenham in the summer transfer window, but in recent weeks the Brazilian has renewed his relationship with Guardiola.
Man City have now officially announced that Savinho has extended his contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2031.
Guardiola said Savinho needs to improve his decision-making if he’s to become one of the world’s best players.
Former Leicester City Premier League winger Marc Albrighton once compared Savinho to his league-winning teammate Riyad Mahrez.
In an interview with Man City Albrighton, said: “But every time I’ve seen him [Savinho] play, he’s [reminded me] – I’m sure you’ve used this comparison before – of Riyad Mahrez.
“And he’s someone I’ve played with, Riyad, and like the quality he’s got, his first touch, the fact that he can go on either side and how positive he is. And I see that in Savinho.
“He’s been exciting for me to see, and another one that City have bought in, and it seems to be coming good.”
Savinho’s first season numbers echo that of Mahrez
Savinho would have to go a long way to reach the heights of Mahrez, but the two share some interesting similarities.
Both Savinho and Mahrez notched over 10 goal involvements in their debut seasons with the Cityzens, although 10 of Savinho’s were assists.
| Riyad Mahrez | Debut seasons compared | Savinho |
| 12 | Goals | 2 |
| 12 | Assists | 10 |
| 37 | Key passes | 56 |
| 7.52 | Shot-creating actions per 90 | 9.25 |
| 6.6 | xG | 6.5 |
Savinho’s comparison to Mahrez is flattering, but the young winger has a lot of work to do to break into Guardiola’s first team picture.
Guardiola will hope Savinho can fulfil the potential that Albrighton sees, and perhaps this new contract reflects that faith being instilled in the 21-year-old.