Man City boss Pep Guardiola gives a thumbs up to one of his players. (Getty Images)
The master of the dark arts, Fernandinho is the black sheep of Pep Guardiola’s beautiful and expansive style of football. Now 33, the Brazilian has still managed to make himself irreplaceable and the Cityzens are yet to find a like-for-like replacement, which is easier said than done. Simply because there are a few players in the world who can do what Fernandinho does, effectively and become world renowned for it.
That is exactly what Manchester City need, not a world-renowned star but someone who can become world class thanks purely on basis of his performances at the Etihad Stadium. That’s why the Daily Mail has revealed that Manchester City are close to a move for Hajduk Split star Ante Palaversa, with the teenager impressing in his debut season.
The highly rated 18-year-old has already made his mark in Croatia and is regarded to be among the best in his position in the Croatian league. Not only that while has earned the comparisons to Toni Kroos and even David Silva, but it’s also Fernandinho that the youngster most represents.
Palaversa’s ability to break down play and find a team-mate with a brilliant pass resembles Manchester City’s invisible wall, but it’s his composure that has shocked Guardiola. So far the Croatian international has made 14 appearances for Hadjuk, which has showcased all his talents, but also his ability to dictate play.
Few players possess that and if Palaversa keeps developing, soon he will easily become the perfect replacement for Fernandinho and a bargain at £7million. However, it’s the Brazilian that Ante Palaversa needs to learn from, so the sooner that Manchester City tie up all the loose ends, the sooner the 18-year-old can learn from a great number 6.
Till then the Croatia U19 captain needs to make sure he stays fit and keeps playing great football for Hadjuk till he arrives at Manchester City. As for Manchester City, they can rest knowing that they have done their job and finally manage to accomplish what looked like an impossible task. Not only will they get young talent at a bargain, but at the same time, the youngster happens to be someone who can replace 33-year-old Fernandinho.
Plus Ante Palaversa comes Pep Guardiola approved, with the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss more than happy with the 18-year-old Croatian star.
