Could Jorginho take Man City to the next level?
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Champions have been linked with Napoli midfielder
It’s been inevitable for months, but Manchester City were officially crowned champions last weekend.
Pep Guardiola’s side have played some of the best football ever seen in the top-flight. They can break the Premier League records for most points and goals scored in a single season before the campaign is over too.
But there’s still room for improvement. They were knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals after a 5-1 aggregate loss to Liverpool.
The club will strengthen this summer to help them make a serious challenge in Europe and domestic competition. And they’ve been linked with a move for Napoli midfielder Jorginho. The Coral News Team have looked at three reasons why he could be an ideal fit…
Fernandinho’s heir
Fernandinho’s displays at the base of midfield have been central to City’s success this season. He wins back possession and gets attacks started without any fuss, helping the team to control games.
The Brazil international has made 30 league appearances this season. But he’ll turn 33-years-old next month.
City can’t expect him to continue to play so many games in such a demanding position. Jorginho performs a similar role for Napoli and could be his eventual successor. The Italy international reads the game brilliantly and has an eye for a pass.
Keep things fresh
Guardiola’s style of football asks a lot from his players. He wants his team to constantly be on the front foot, whether it’s by moving the ball around with purpose or closing down from the front.
He’s relied on a core of players who have recently looked like they’re feeling the effects of a long season. City ran out of steam in the second half of their recent losses to Manchester United and Liverpool.
As many of his squad will be at the World Cup this summer, it’ll be even more important to have enough options to cope with the number of games City play next term.
Jorginho can play as the holding midfielder, but he also has the creativity to play in the advanced roles usually occupied by David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne.
Attacking adventure
It took City a year to fully get to grips with what their manager wanted from them on the pitch. Any new signing will also have to go through a period of adaptation. But Jorginho’s time at Napoli could give him a head-start.
Other than City, Napoli have arguably been the most exciting side to watch in Europe this season. Jorginho’s ability to play penetrating passes has been a major part in that.
His clever midfield play allows the likes of Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens to shine further forward. The 26-year-old’s presence could have a similar impact at the Etihad.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
