Sergio Aguero names Barcelona star who would “fit perfectly” into Manchester City’s system | OneFootball

Manchester City legend Sergio Agüero has identified Raphinha as the one Brazilian international he believes would “fit perfectly” into Pep Guardiola’s system.

Over the last 10 years, City have analysed player profiles through tactical compatibility, statistical output, and positional intelligence in during recruitment processes undertaken by former sporting director Txiki Begiristain, and now his successor in Hugo Viana.

Under manager Pep Guardiola, wide players are expected to do far more than isolate full-backs, instead adding an aggressive press, closure of passing lanes between centre-back and full-backs, and operating in interior zones when required.

That framework has influenced how City’s attack has changed over time with wingers drifting inside more often, operating closer to Erling Haaland and taking up half-spaces instead of hugging the touchline.

Against that backdrop, Sergio Agüero’s latest endorsement carries weight as the club’s all-time leading goalscorer – who won five Premier League titles at the Etihad Stadium – knows what Pep Guardiola’s structure requires.

Speaking to Brazilian outlet Trivela, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Agüero was asked to name one Brazilian player he believes could thrive at Manchester City.

“I have not been following Brazilian football closely enough to name someone from there. Among those already in Europe, I really like Raphinha. He is a player who would fit perfectly into [Manchester] City’s style of play,” he said.

Raphinha has become a key figure at Barcelona having excelled for Leeds United from 2020 to 2022, quickly adapting to the rhythm of the Premier League before moving to Spain, scoring 13 goals and provided five assists in 24 appearances this season alone.

The forward presses with intensity and tracks back diligently – attributes that Pep Guardiola values highly. When unavailable, Barcelona’s pressing structure has arguably become less united, showing just how much he helps the defence as well as the attack.

In possession, Raphinha frequently moves infield, operating between the lines and combining centrally; movements similar to how Manchester City have changed the role of their own wingers recently.

For now, the possibility of Manchester City looking into the possibility of recruiting Raphinha appears highly unlikely, especially given the recent arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth during the January transfer window and other priorities ready for the summer.