Several Manchester City fans have voiced their frustration at the departures of a number of gifted youth prospects this summer.
Gavin Bazunu, who is recognised as one of Europe’s most talented young goalkeepers, has signed for Southampton on a permanent basis.
The Irish international was earmarked by many as Ederson’s successor one day, which is why various supporters were keen on him staying at the Etihad Stadium.
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A similar story applies in the case of Romeo Lavia, who accompanied his City teammate to the south coast.
Ever since his arrival from Anderlecht in 2020, the youngster was tipped to be the heir to Fernandinho’s throne in the future.
While Rodri has taken on said-mantle in superb fashion, the 18-year-old was not even handed the role of an understudy, with the club instead choosing to bring in Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United for £42 million.
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In addition, it has been previously reported that, while those within the Etihad Stadium believe that while Lavia could become a first-team player one day, he needs to develop before he can push Rodri for starting minutes currently.
Two other names that bid adieu to the Premier League champions include Darko Gyabi and CJ-Egan Riley, who joined Leeds United and Burnley respectively.
Despite the number of exits involving said youngsters, an interesting insight has revealed that their dream to don the Sky Blue strip one day has still not died out in any way, shape or form.
As per a report by Sam Lee of the Athletic, some at City have claimed that a specific culture now exists.
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Within the club, they believe that the young players always have close ties to the side and would be desperate to make a return one day.
Interestingly, the two names that are understood to fit the aforementioned category are Gavin Bazunu and Romeo Lavia.
It seems as if the feelings are mutual as Pep Guardiola’s side rate the pair in particular to the extent that buy-back clauses have reportedly been inserted in both players’ cases.
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Assessing how the likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and James McAtee have been integrated into the first-team, it is likely that youngsters have realised that there are not many better destinations in the world to thrive under than at City.
Foden's development into one of the world's best players is a particular highlight.
Many bemoaned his slow integration, but Guardiola knew it would take time for the Stockport-born youngster to adapt to the demands of first-team football.
It is the same path Palmer is currently on.
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Topics: Manchester City, Romeo Lavia, Southampton, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours
Srinivas Sadhanand