Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly keeping a close watch on exciting young prospects, Mahamadou Sangaré at City Academy, following the teenager’s impressive start to life in England after joining from Paris Saint-Germain.
The 18-year-old forward, who arrived at the Etihad Campus over the summer, has quickly caught the attention of City’s coaching staff — and even Guardiola himself — after a series of standout performances across the club’s youth sides.
Rising star from Paris to Manchester
Sangaré joined Manchester City on a free transfer after progressing through PSG’s youth academy, where he built a reputation as one of the brightest young attacking talents in France. During his time with the French giants’ U19 team, Sangaré showcased his eye for goal, scoring 33 goals in 35 appearances. His form extended to European competition as well, with nine goals in 11 UEFA Youth League matches.
It was this remarkable scoring record that drew the attention of City’s scouts and convinced the club to secure his signature ahead of several European suitors. PSG were reportedly disappointed to lose him, recognizing the Malian teenager’s development as one of their academy’s success stories.
Since making the move, Mahamadou Sangaré at City academy has been a joy to watch. He has continued his fine form in front of goal. For City’s UEFA U19 side, he has already scored three times in just two appearances, while also netting twice in five matches for the club’s U21 team. Such numbers have quickly established him as one of the most prolific young players in England’s youth system.
His early impact has not gone unnoticed, with many within the club seeing him as a player destined for the top level. Guardiola, who has a history of promoting young players into his senior side, is said to be monitoring Sangaré’s progress carefully.
Guardiola’s gradual path for young talent
Guardiola’s approach to youth development has often been one of patience and precision — integrating players only when they are ready to handle the demands of his tactical system. Sangaré, while still raw, appears to fit the mould of the kind of forward Guardiola values: technically gifted, intelligent off the ball, and instinctive in front of goal.
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Former Malian international Mahamadou N’Diaye, who has followed Sangaré’s development closely, believes the youngster has all the qualities to one day make it into Guardiola’s senior squad, though he insists that patience will be key.
“It’s true that he’s racking up the stats with the youth teams, but it’s too early for him to break into Manchester City’s first team, despite his great potential,” N’Diaye said in an interview with Africa Foot, according to Sport Witness
“But I’m sure they’ll do it gradually. He’s a young player who still needs to take further steps before permanently joining Manchester City’s performance squad.”
N’Diaye’s comments reflect the wider belief that City’s methodical approach to youth development is designed to protect young talents from early pressure. The club’s elite development system allows promising players to train alongside senior stars while continuing to mature in age-group competitions.
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The records of Mahamadou Sangaré at City academy were impressive due to being already familiar with top-level football during his time at PSG. He is viewed as someone who could thrive under such a setup. Guardiola’s track record — having nurtured the likes of Phil Foden, Rico Lewis, and Oscar Bobb — suggests Sangaré could be next in line for gradual exposure to first-team football.
N’Diaye revealed that Guardiola is not just aware of Sangaré’s progress — he is actively following his development with interest.
“I know Pep Guardiola is watching him and will release him at the right time,” N’Diaye explained. “He can establish himself at City, but we need to give him time to adapt and grow.”
The statements underline how highly regarded Sangaré is within Manchester City’s setup. Guardiola’s attention is not easily earned, especially in a squad packed with world-class talent. For an 18-year-old to already be on his radar speaks volumes about the teenager’s quality and potential.
