Eduardo Camavinga is back on Pep Guardiola's radar, and it's nothing new. Manchester City's coach has been following him since he stood out at Rennes. His profile has always fit what Pep looks for: a modern, physical midfielder, capable of breaking lines and adapting to different positions.
At 22, Camavinga has already played important matches with Real Madrid and the French national team. Although injuries have slowed him down in the last season, he remains one of the most promising talents in European soccer. Guardiola knows this, and now more than ever he wants him in his squad.
City needs an urgent renewal
Kevin De Bruyne's departure, combined with the physical wear of players like Bernardo Silva or Gündoğan, has left a gap in City's midfield. Guardiola is rebuilding his team. He doesn't want to do it with average players.
He's looking for pieces that can make a difference in the medium and long term. Camavinga fits that profile; he can play as a pivot, central midfielder, or even left back. His intensity, his pressing ability, and his tactical maturity despite his youth make him ideal for City's model.
In addition, his style adapts well to the Premier League: high pace, quick transitions, and physical demands. Guardiola sees him as an investment for both the present and the future.
Xabi Alonso trusts him, but hasn't tested him
At Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso's new project is starting to take shape. After the Club World Cup, the Basque coach made it clear that there will be changes. He wants a more solid team, more committed, and with defined roles, but he has a problem: Camavinga hasn't played with him yet.
The Frenchman missed the start of preseason due to injury. Although Xabi has publicly said he counts on him, he hasn't had the chance to evaluate him on the field. That leaves the door slightly open; if City makes a strong offer and Camavinga feels he's not a key piece, the scenario could change.
Madrid doesn't want to sell, but the market rules
For now, at Real Madrid they aren't considering selling him. They trust that, if injuries don't get in the way, he can be essential. However, they also expect him to take a step up in quality, something he still hasn't shown regularly.
If City comes in with an offer above €70 million and Camavinga shows doubts about his role in the new white project, the deal could be unlocked. It won't be easy, but in today's soccer nothing is impossible.