Raphinha
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – 01 11 2026: Raphinha seen celebrating with a trophy during Spanish Supercup Final game between teams of FC Barcelona and Real Madrid
Manchester City legend Sergio Agüero believes there is one Brazilian who would “fit perfectly” at the Etihad.
Speaking exclusively to Brazilian outletTrivela, the former City striker was asked to name a player from Brazil who would suit Pep Guardiola’s side. Agüero, who won five Premier League titles in Manchester, pointed to one familiar face in Europe.
“I have not been following Brazilian football closely enough to name someone from there. Among those already in Europe, I really like Raphinha. He is a player who would fit perfectly into City’s style of play,” he said.
Raphinha is currently at FC Barcelona and has developed into one of their key figures. The 29-year-old winger previously played in the Premier League with Leeds United between 2020 and 2022, earning widespread praise before his move to Spain.
This season, he has managed 13 goals and five assists in 24 appearances for Barcelona. Despite some injury setbacks, he remains central to both club and country.
Why he’d be tactical fit under Pep Guardiola
Agüero’s suggestion is not random. Raphinha ticks many of Guardiola’s boxes. He presses aggressively, tracks back, and maintains high intensity without the ball. Barcelona have visibly struggled with their pressing structure when he is absent.
In possession, he often drifts inside from wide areas. That profile mirrors how City have recently used their wingers. Players operating between the lines and closer to Erling Haaland would suit Raphinha’s game. He can attack space, combine centrally, and even operate as a No.10 if required.
Manchester City have frequently fielded wide players who move into interior channels. Raphinha’s tactical intelligence would allow him to adapt quickly.
Doubts over Pep’s future addressed
Agüero also addressed ongoing talk about Guardiola’s future at the Etihad. The manager is under contract until 2027, although speculation about a possible exit at the end of 2025-26 continues.
“Pep still has one more year on his contract,” Agüero said. “It is a debate that does not help anyone and only creates unnecessary noise around something that should not even be on the table right now. When the time comes, it will be resolved. It is not something to worry about.”
He added that Manchester City will always have strong candidates if the role eventually becomes vacant.For now, however, Agüero is clear. If City were to look for a Brazilian addition, Raphinha would be his pick.