Man City Opinion: Why should the Cityzens recall Rony Lopes?
Manchester City’s biggest concern at the moment would be Leroy Sane’s exit links to Bayern Munich. (h/t The Sun)
Besides, they still need to sort out a worthy successor for David Silva soon after the midfielder confirmed his departure from the Etihad. Pep Guardiola has to deal with both issues in due time as the transfer window reaches its final week.
In such an event, the Cityzens can make a call on their former academy graduate, Rony Lopes, who has now become an eminent figure in the Ligue 1, playing for Monaco.
The 22-year-old didn’t rule out a possible return to the Premier League, as he clearly stated that he would fancy a return to the Etihad. (Manchester Evening News).
How would Lopes help the Cityzens?
Lopes joined Monaco in 2015 and it did not take long for him to adapt to the Ligue 1. The biggest reason was his impressive loan spell with fellow Ligue 1 club Lille in 2016/17 where he racked up six goals and four assists.
The Portuguese youngster made an instant impact on his return to the parent club, scoring 15 goals and providing 7 assists in the following season.
Last season turned out to be a torrid one for Monaco, which in turn reduced his scoring rate, as he picked up a goal and assists tally of 6 in all competitions. While the numbers are still less, the way he scored the goals is the real talking point and the best instances are his stunners against Lyon and FC Metz.
However, statistically, he cut a sorry figure and was nowhere close to the form he used to be in the previous season. Yet, it can be put away since Monaco finished in the bottom half of the table, evading relegation in the end.
Lopes fits the bill in many ways, mainly due to his versatility to play anywhere along the front line. Yet, he excels at playing as an attacking playmaker or a winger.
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Now, it would be up to Guardiola to ultimately decide how he wants the Portuguese to play in his playing XI.
Even in the lacklustre season the last term, Lopes averaged 2 key passes and 1.2 dribbles per game. He imposes a geat set-piece threat as well.
Final verdict
The Cityzens have nothing much to do in the current transfer window but they should plan for life without Sane and Silva. Recalling Lopes would be a wise decision by Guardiola for the clubs’ long-term future.