Manchester City are still waiting for their next manager, but a forgotten figure is ready to step back into the spotlight. Brazilian centre-back Vitor Reis is returning from a season-long loan at Girona with his reputation significantly enhanced, and the 20-year-old could be handed a fresh start when the new boss arrives.
City's backline conceded the second fewest goals in the Premier League last season, but the impending arrival of Enzo Maresca—replacing the departed Pep Guardiola—is expected to bring only minor tweaks. That opens the door for Reis to stake a claim, with the Brazilian set to join a depleted squad for pre-season in Hong Kong.
Reis' La Liga Education
Reis spent the 2025-26 campaign on loan at City Football Group sister club Girona, and despite their agonising relegation on the final day of the La Liga season, he emerged as a standout performer. After a slow start that included a red card in his fifth appearance against Levante, the composed defender grew into his role, becoming one of manager Michel's most trusted options.
"He improved a lot in physical terms," Girona commentator Miquel Agut Riera told BBC Sport. "In the beginning he was not that consistent in the duels... He became stronger in the duels and Girona played very offensive football, so he had to cover a lot of space."
A Star in the Making?
City initially paid £29.6m to sign Reis from Palmeiras in January 2025, but while fellow January arrival Abdukodir Khusanov quickly became a first-team regular, Reis managed just four appearances before being loaned out. However, his stock has never been higher after 37 games in Spain's top flight, where he faced the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona with growing assurance.
Reports in Spain have linked Barcelona with a move for Reis, but sources close to City have dismissed such talk as "pure speculation." The plan, as it stands, is for the young defender to be part of the first-team squad next season.
Expert Verdict
"If he plays for Manchester City next season, he has already faced the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and was outstanding," Riera added. "He has everything to become an important player in a top squad. We are talking about a star in the making. He is a very good prospect and will become a top centre-back in the near future."
Key Takeaways
- Vitor Reis is ready to return to Manchester City after a successful loan at Girona, where he made 37 appearances.
- Despite Barcelona's interest, City plan to integrate him into the first team under new manager Enzo Maresca.
- Reis has been described as a "star in the making" by those who watched him closely in La Liga.
- With a solid defensive record, City are well-stocked but Reis offers youthful depth and long-term potential.
Quick Facts
Name: Vitor Reis
Age: 20
Nationality: Brazilian
Position: Centre-back
Signed from: Palmeiras for £29.6m (January 2025)
Man City apps: 4
2025-26 loan: Girona – 37 apps, 0 goals