Manchester City have reportedly performed a dramatic U-turn over the future of Brazilian winger Savinho, who is now considered “untouchable” at the Etihad.
Savinho arrived at Manchester City from Troyes in the summer of 2024 for a fee of around £21.5m (€25m) and enjoyed a productive first season, making 48 appearances with three goals and 13 assists. The 21-year-old quickly settled in and earned a place in Pep Guardiola's attacking rotation, starting 36 matches.
He appeared to be on course to gradually establish himself as a regular starter on the right wing for the Sky Blues. However, his second season has proved more difficult than the first, with the Brazilian facing increased competition following the arrival of Rayan Cherki and the return to form of Phil Foden.
Savinho's playing time in decline at Manchester City
As a result, Savinho has seen his playing time decrease. Hampered by minor injury setbacks, he has featured in 23 matches this season, only 10 of which as a starter, registering two goals and three assists. The situation has understandably caused frustration for the young winger, whose departure was reportedly considered during the last transfer window.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the Brazil international was keen to secure more regular minutes in order to earn a place in Carlo Ancelotti's squad. The same source indicated that Manchester City were not opposed to selling Savinho, with the prospect of a significant profit.
Savinho described as “untouchable” by Manchester City
Ultimately, despite interest from Tottenham and the arrival of Antoine Semenyo, the winger did not leave the Sky Blues in January, though his status as a rotation player remained unchanged. Could a summer departure be on the cards? A dramatic twist has occurred in this saga. According to Caught Offside, Savinho is now described as “untouchable” by Manchester City.
The British outlet reports that City's sporting director Hugo Viana is “convinced” of the young player's potential, while Guardiola is determined to develop him into a world-class winger. With the expected departure of Bernardo Silva, who is out of contract, the Brazilian could find himself playing a more prominent role, particularly given his creativity.
The 21-year-old is under contract until June 2031 with the English giants, who have no interest in selling him any time soon. For his part, Savinho is reportedly happy at the Sky Blues and fully committed to the club's sporting project. All signs now suggest that Savinho will remain at Manchester City, barring yet another twist in the tale.
