Girona manager opens up on future of ‘best player he has ever had’ amid pending Manchester City transfer

Uncertainty appears to remain over the future of Brazilian international winger Savio, following the latest comments from Girona manager Míchel.

It is widely understood that Manchester City and ESTAC Troyes have reached an agreement over the transfer of the forward, who has excelled in Girona’s hugely successful campaign and qualification for European football next season.

The current understanding from Spanish media sources is that Manchester City are currently planning for the 20-year-old to join pre-season with Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad, before returning to Girona on loan next season.

The deal has however been met by anger from those within French football, after Savio failed to make a single appearance for the club despite his vast talents, with journalist Jérôme Rothen recently stating, “Maybe they think because it’s Troyes, we’re not going to be vigilant.

“I find that problematic. I just want to say to them: ‘Get out of here, French football doesn’t need you’. I’m not ashamed to say it, we don’t need them.”

Speaking in light of Girona’s outstanding achievement of UEFA Champions League qualification for the 2024/25 season, manager Míchel has been asked on the future of winger Savio – a star figure in the La Liga side’s achievements this season.

“He is the best player I have ever had,” Míchel admitted in response. “I don’t know if he is a ESTAC Troyes or Manchester City player, but I know he is not our player. We’ll discuss it later,” he continued.”

Savio has played an integral role in the goalscoring form of Girona in La Liga particularly, having scored eight goals and provided a further nine assists in his 33 Spanish top-flight appearances.

Sávio received his first call-up to the Brazil senior team for their friendly matches against England and their respective Manchester City contingent, as well as Spain. The forward made his debut against England, which ended in a 1–0 victory.