The time is coming for Manchester City to give a young defender a go | OneFootball

Manchester City have a host of talented young players out on loan across England and Europe. The loan spells are an important part of the development of City’s youngsters. The time they spend out on loan does allow them to develop as players and learn what is required to play at the highest level.

One player who has spent this season out on loan is young defender Callum Doyle. He started the season strongly for Norwich City although his form has tapered off as the season has progressed. But despite this, it is apparent that Doyle has the makings of a potential first-team player for Pep Guardiola’s side. You do get the sense that next season could be the ideal opportunity for Doyle to be given a chance to impress for Manchester City.

Doyle has made 36 appearances for Norwich City this season in all competitions. He has scored 1 goal and added 6 assists in those appearances. In statistics sourced from transfermarkt.com Doyle has played at left-back and centre-back this season for the Canaries. That versatility would make Doyle a welcome addition to Pep Guardiola’s squad.

But aside from his versatility Doyle has become a seasoned player across multiple loan spells in recent seasons. His time at Sunderland, Coventry City, Leicester City and now Norwich City have seen him mature as a player. That maturity, coupled with his versatility, makes him a well-rounded player. You add Doyle’s ability in possession and his physical and defensive attributes and he does appear to be a player who could make the step up at Manchester City.

The time is coming for Callum Doyle to be given an opportunity at Manchester City.

Callum Doyle has served his apprenticeship out on loan across the lower leagues of English football. He has now developed into a player who looks to be ready for a chance at Manchester City. You also sense that next season may be that time for Doyle.

Manchester City’s rebuild is underway, and there is a place for Doyle among it. Yes, City signed Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis during the January transfer window. But Doyle can slot in at left-back and provide much-needed cover for Josko Gvardiol. That would be a welcome addition to Manchester City’s squad. Doyle can also play as a centre-back, so he’d also add that to Pep Guardiola’s squad. Given the constant injury issues suffered by John Stones, Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake this season you do sense that a younger option at centre-back could be of great benefit to Manchester City.

You do sense that the time is coming for Callum Doyle to be given a first-team opportunity at Manchester City. That opportunity could and should come next season. The young defender appears to have a bright future in the game and the hope is that it can play out at the Etihad.