“I loved it” – Savinho quits life-long passion to focus on Manchester City career | OneFootball

Manchester City winger Savinho has revealed he has entirely focussed attentions on his career at the Etihad Stadium, snubbing a life-long passion in the process.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise in European football, taking on a prominent role within Pep Guardiola’s City squad. After a summer dominated by intense transfer speculation, Savinho has since committed his long-term future to the club, signing a new contract and reaffirming his dedication to life in Manchester.

And that commitment has extended beyond the pitch, as Savinho continues to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and Pep Guardiola’s tactical expectations, speaking candidly about the personal sacrifices required to compete at the highest level.

With City’s schedule relentless and competition for places fierce, even recreational activities have been reassessed, while the club believe the winger’s ceiling remains exceptionally high, and his professionalism away from the pitch only strengthens that.

Speaking during a new interview with The Sun’s Martin Blackburn, the Brazilian winger revealed sidelining one of his life-long hobbies in favour of his Etihad Stadium career and further settling into life in the North-West of England.

“I don’t ride [horses] as much nowadays in case something happens but, in the past, I’d go out a lot. It’s something I’ve always enjoyed back home. I loved it,” admitted Savinho.

He continued, “Here, I’ve just been focused on football and settling in. But horses have always been a big part of my life from growing up.”

Savinho also spoke on the concept of bull-riding, on which he said, “I’ve never tried it – it’s very dangerous! If I wasn’t a footballer, then I would do it. I knew all about it having grown up on a farm.”

Looking ahead, Savinho’s comments underline the mindset Pep Guardiola has consistently demanded from his players in total commitment to performance and development.

With Manchester City competing across multiple fronts heading into the new year, the winger’s willingness to put football first will be crucial as he looks to cement his place in the starting line-up.

The Brazilian is expected to play an increasingly important role as the season progresses, particularly with Pep Guardiola eager to see him take the next step in terms of goals and end product.

Should Savinho continue on this trajectory, both on and off the pitch, Manchester City’s faith in blocking his summer exit may yet prove fully justified.