Forgotten Man City defender addresses his long-term future

Right-back Yan Couto of Manchester City, who is presently on loan at Girona, has provided an update regarding his future intentions.

As his future at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain, Manchester City right-back Yan Couto has acknowledged he would be open to a lengthy stint in Spain.

The 21-year-old was acquired by City in March 2020, and he was formally contracted to a five-year contract in July of the same year. Nevertheless, he has been loaned to another club on four separate occasions without appearing for the Blues in any capacity.

Couto, a Brazilian international, completed his third loan stint with Girona, City’s sister club, during the summer. Before that, he was a member of the Spanish club during the 2020/21 and 2022/23 seasons, following which he played for the Portuguese club Braga.

Couto has accumulated 69 appearances during his tenure with Girona. Prior to that, he was named to the bench for City’s 2021 FA Community Shield loss against Leicester City, the only occasion he was selected to a matchday squad. His contributions have been instrumental in their ascent from the second division of Spanish football to the current standings atop La Liga.

“I certainly harbor aspirations and contemplate my future,” Couto disclosed to the Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo.

“I aspire to compete at the highest level and am thrilled to be a member of Girona, but I also wish to compete in the Champions League, although I am undecided whether that be here or at Manchester City; I do adore Spain.” “I foresee myself playing a larger role in La Liga next season, but we must first determine our options.”

With the right-back aiming to make his Champions League debut, Girona could provide him with the opportunity to accomplish that goal. They are presently atop the La Liga standings against all odds, having won 11 of their first 13 games of the season.

Although the campaign is still in its early stages, Girona will have a chance of qualifying for the Champions League in the coming season if their current form continues. Couto, should they manage to accomplish that goal, has not ruled out the possibility of a permanent stay.

He further stated, “We ought to discuss it; why not remain for another year?” “I believe it is also a City Group initiative that will be deliberated upon at that time, albeit until the conclusion of the current season.”

Until 2025, the Brazilian is bound by a contract with City.