'Pace, ball carrying and one-against-one ability' - why Spurs want Savinho
Savinho's output at Manchester City makes Tottenham's decision to invest heavily in him look curious at first glance. In the Premier League, the winger has scored just twice over his two seasons at the Etihad. Savinho's reputation was built during a breakout 2023-24 campaign with Girona, where he was on loan from Troyes, when he became one of La Liga's most dangerous ball carriers.
Tottenham Hotspur's interest in Brazilian winger João Paulo Savinho stems from his impressive performance at his previous clubs. Though his current club Manchester City has seen him make 84 appearances, score seven goals and provide 13 assists, Savinho's output at his loan spell at Girona during the 2023-24 season was far more remarkable.
In 37 league matches for Girona, he registered nine goals and eight assists, showcasing his remarkable ball carrying skills. Savinho was ranked top in La Liga for successful take-ons (104), progressive carries (181) and goal-creating actions (25). He also ranked second for passes into the penalty area and progressive carrying distance.
His performances were most effective when utilized on the left flank, where he scored five goals and provided six assists over 27 matches. Girona often exploited this by drawing opponents forward before creating one-against-one situations for wide players, a tactic that fits Spurs' approach. Savinho's acceleration and willingness to take on defenders make him particularly suitable for these moments.
At 22 years old, Savinho's ability to carry the ball over distance and disrupt defensive shape at Girona could provide Spurs with a direct route through compact defenses and create openings for their central forwards. Despite his modest goal tally at Manchester City, Spurs believe Savinho's pace, ball carrying, one-against-one ability and chance creation from wide areas make him a valuable asset worth the hefty investment.
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