“I sent him a message” – Savinho left starstruck by former Manchester City forward’s social media interaction | OneFootball

Manchester City winger Savinho has revealed the wholesome moment he was seemingly left starstruck by a response from former Etihad winger, Riyad Mahrez.

The Brazilian international has brought a fresh impetus to Pep Guardiola’s attacking line, adding a direct approach to the forward trio that is not often seen when utilising the likes of Jack Grealish or Bernardo Silva in wide areas.

Savinho’s move to Manchester City from ESTAC Troyes completed the ultimate City Football Group dream, signing the player into the portfolio of clubs before sending them out on loan to experiences European football.

It was a loan spell with Girona that ultimately brought the player to Manchester City’s attentions, and after successfully securing UEFA Champions League qualification for the Catalan side for the first time in the club’s history, a move to the Etihad was finalised.

Speaking during a new exclusive interview with MailSport’s Jack Gaughan, Savinho has revealed the inspiration applied to his game by Manchester City’s former number 26 winger, Riyad Mahrez.

“It was always a dream to play like him,” the Brazil international admitted this week.

“I’ve been asking Ederson how he was in training, how he played. He’d just say he was incredible, top. I always watched him back in Brazil, wanting to emulate how he played.”

The 20-year-old continued by revealing his desire to continue the ‘legacy’ left behind at Manchester City by Mahrez, and also the wholesome moment he found out the Algerian legend had interacted with him on social media and followed him on Instagram.

“I decided to take his shirt (number) because I want to carry on that legacy he left here and carry it on,” the former ESTAC Troyes forward said.

“And yes! The tweet! So happy – and so were my family! I was a bit surprised to be honest,” he continued. “I sent him a message to say thank you. He replied and followed me on Instagram. It’s great he is watching and supporting me – and continuing to support City.”

Savinho will be hoping to replicate the goalscoring and silverware success brought to Manchester City by his predecessor in the number 26 shirt, with Riyad Mahrez being firmly remembered as one of the finest wide operators in recent Premier League history.

City confirmed the signing of Mahrez on a five-year deal in the summer of 2018, having agreed a fee in the region of £60 million with Leicester City to make the winger the most expensive African footballer, the club’s most expensive signing, and a record fee received by the Foxes.

Before eventually bringing an end to his Etihad Stadium adventure by moving into the Saudi Pro League, Mahrez recorded a staggering 236 appearances for Manchester City across all competitions, scoring 78 goals, and winning 11 trophies across five seasons.