Mohamed Salah may have ‘exposed’ Man City problem amid BBC transfer update – pundit
Paul Robinson has claimed Mohamed Salah may have “exposed” the only chink in the armour of Man City on Saturday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Spurs and England number one suggested Joao Cancelo’s “tough afternoon” against Salah showed why City are in the market for a recognised left-back.
Salah shone at the King Power Stadium on Saturday as Liverpool beat Man City to win the FA Community Shield.
Cancelo started the game at left-back, as he did for much of last season, with Kyle Walker on the right-hand side of the defence.
The Premier League champions have seen two bids for Marc Cucurella turned down by Brighton in this window.
According to the BBC (1 August), the two clubs have ended their talks over the potential transfer of the 24-year-old.
When asked by Football Insider if Salah exposed the need for a left-back signing, Robinson said: “Cancelo did brilliantly at left-back last season.
“He was in my team of the year. He was outstanding.
“It has to be said though, he had a tough afternoon against Salah. He was exposed one on one against him.
“City have Cancelo and they have Nathan Ake as left-back options.
“But if they could strengthen anywhere it would be at left-back. I don’t think it would be a disaster if they did not sign one though.
“Cucurella would have been a great fit. But Man City do not want to be held to ransom and overpay for a player. Brighton are in a very strong position.
“It looks like City are going to start the season without a recognised left-back.”
In other news, a pundit has issued a ‘harsh’ Ruben Dias verdict as Man City controversy is analysed.