Why a move for Dani Olmo would be perfect for Manchester City
According to Calcimercato (h/t Daily Mail), Manchester City have been linked with a move for Dani Olmo, who currently plies his trade with Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia.
Manchester City were completely outclassed by Liverpool last weekend and there seems to be a need for an attacking midfielder in their ranks. Pep Guardiola has just two men in that position in De Bruyne and David Silva.
Olmo came through the ranks of Barcelona’s youth academy and his decision to leave Spain in 2015 has paid off nicely. In a few years time, the Spaniard has developed to become the heart of Dinamo Zagreb’s midfield.
The 21-year-old was instrumental for Spain U21 squad in the summer, winning the UEFA Euro Championship. He scored a crucial goal, which saw them overcome Germany 2-1 in the final.
Last season, in 44 games for Zagreb, Olmo scored 12 times and provided 9 assists for the team, thus earning him the best player and the best young player of Croatia’s top League last season. The midfielder has since then taken his game to the next level in this campaign.
Manchester City seemed to have a slight dip in their form this season. They have already lost 3 matches so far in the league. Injury to Aymeric Laporte has put their defensive line under threat for the most part of the season and it seems to be a big challenge for Pep Guardiola.
Another area where City have to add reinforcement would likely be the attacking midfield position. That is why Dani Olmo’s inclusion to their squad might benefit Pep Guardiola.
Though he plays mainly as an attacking midfielder, Olmo can also operate on both flanks. With Leroy Sane set to be out of the team for a long time due to injury, Olmo can be used as a backup for Raheem Sterling on the left wing as the Englishman has played all the matches so far this season.
Olmo could be effective for Pep’s possession-based style of play and could be lethal when the team decides to counter-attack. Olmo’s traits could guarantee him a starting place in any of Europe’s top clubs and at Manchester City, he can develop his game.
Being a La Masia product, Olmo has already been under Pep’s supervision when the latter was the manager at Barcelona. Very few players had the courage to leave Barcelona and the risk Olmo took at the age of 16 has paved him a way to showcase his talent.
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Verdict
With David Silva’s contract coming to an end in July, Pep has one of the best young talents set in his sight to add to their squad.
Olmo can also benefit from the presence of De Bruyne. Guardiola has a good record of shaping young talents into a finished article. At just 21, Olmo has a bright future and playing for Manchester City could allow him to be one of the best.
As a future prospect, Man City must make sure they beat off competition from other European clubs like AC Milan and AS Roma, who are also reportedly keeping close tabs on the young starlet.