I Don't Like People Comparing Me to Mahrez, Says Man City's Savinho

As Manchester City prepares for a crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium, new signing Savinho shares his journey from a small Brazilian town to one of the biggest clubs in world football. The young winger discusses his childhood, career trajectory, and life in Manchester in this exclusive interview with Showmax.

A Dream Come True

What has the experience been like since arriving in Manchester? Was it always your dream to play in the Premier League?

It's been incredible. Even though we've had some ups and downs, playing for Manchester City is a dream come true. I was chosen to be here, to play in the Premier League, and I couldn’t be happier. My focus is on adapting well and contributing to the team as much as I can.

A Rapid Rise

Did you ever imagine reaching this level so quickly?

Not at all. Everything has happened so fast for me. I started playing professionally at 16, moved to Europe at 18, and now, two years later, I’m at Manchester City. I can only thank God for how quickly things have fallen into place.

Roots in São Mateus

Tell us about your childhood in São Mateus.

I’m very proud of where I come from. I miss my family a lot, and whenever I visit, I look forward to reliving those childhood moments.

What was a typical day like for you growing up?

I did a bit of everything. I helped my grandparents, played football every day at 5 PM, rode horses, and even helped my uncle milk cows in the morning. It was a simple but happy childhood, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Did you have a proper football field, or did you improvise?

We built a little field with bamboo goalposts. Over time, we improved it, but we always played until dark. Those moments shaped me as a player.

The Journey to Professional Football

How did your career begin?

People always said I had talent. I often played with older kids and stood out. That’s when my family and I decided to move to Vitória to pursue my dream. It was tough leaving home, but it was necessary.

At what age did you leave São Mateus for Vitória?

I was around six or seven. When we arrived, I immediately joined a beach football session. The coach liked me, and I ended up playing both beach football and 11-a-side.

When did you realize you could make a career out of football?

When I started playing 11-a-side, my coach waived my fees because he saw my potential. That was when I knew I had something special.

Joining Atlético Mineiro

How did you end up at Atlético Mineiro?

I was playing for Santa Cruz when we had matches against Cruzeiro and Atlético. I was a little kid playing against much older opponents, but Atlético liked what they saw and invited me to return.

How was your time there?

It was great. I joined at 10 and stayed until I was 18. I debuted for the senior team at 16, which is rare. Though I didn’t get as many chances as I wanted, I have nothing but fond memories of the club.

Do you remember your professional debut?

Absolutely. It was an away game against Atlético Goianiense. I played only 15 minutes, but it was the most exhausting 15 minutes of my life. The excitement, the nerves—I could feel it in my legs!

Adapting to Europe

How was the transition to European football?

It was tough. PSV was my first European club, and I had to adapt to the cold, a new language, and a different style of play. But I don’t regret anything—PSV helped me grow. Then Girona came calling, and that move changed everything.

How did Girona influence your career?

Girona gave me confidence and helped me develop into the player I am today. Without them, I wouldn’t be at Manchester City now.

The Manchester City Move

When did you first hear about City’s interest?

I was at Copa América when my agent told me Guardiola wanted to call me. When he did, he gave me confidence and told me he wanted me at City. At first, I hesitated—I even told my family I wanted to stay at Girona for another season! But after speaking to senior Brazilian players like Danilo and Marquinhos, I realized I couldn’t turn down this opportunity.

What convinced you to finally make the move?

Hearing Guardiola’s vision for me and getting advice from my teammates. My wife also played a big role in my decision. She supported me every step of the way.

Defining His Own Path

You’ve drawn comparisons to Riyad Mahrez. How do you feel about that?

I don’t like people comparing me to Mahrez. He’s a fantastic player, but I want to be known as Savinho, not the next Mahrez. I respect him a lot, but I have my own path to carve out.

Looking Ahead

As Savinho settles into life at Manchester City, fans will be eager to see how he develops under Guardiola’s guidance. With a bright future ahead, the young Brazilian is ready to make his mark in the Premier League.

Stream the Liverpool vs. Manchester City match live on Showmax Premier League mobile this Sunday, 23 February, at 5:30pm.

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Source: Legit.ng