Returning to Manchester City last season has done wonders for a young defender

Max Alleyne's return to Manchester City last season proved to be a significant boon for the young defender. After suffering serious injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol, City called upon Alleyne, who had impressed in Championship matches for Watford. Thrown into the starting lineup by Pep Guardiola, Alleyne made seven appearances for the team throughout the season.

This stint at City has evidently paid dividends, as the defender has continued to showcase his maturation and readiness for the club. He has been called upon for two recent friendlies against Inter Milan and the K-League All-Stars, displaying a more seasoned approach to the game. Alongside Vitor Reis, the center-back duo has demonstrated their ability to guard against counterattacks and maintain possession effectively under Enzo Maresca's system.

City's reliance on five center-backs for the upcoming season, given their expected game load, necessitates a steady and reliable presence in the backline. Max Alleyne's performances have made a compelling case for him to be considered as Manchester City's fifth-choice center-back, a role for which he appears to be well-prepared.