The hard road to Manchester

There was a moment, not long ago, when Allan thought his dream was over. Ahead of his final game with Palmeiras' under-20 side, the young winger cried with his parents, convinced his time at the club was coming to an end.

Instead, Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira reassured him there was a future at the club. That future has now led to Manchester City, who today officially confirmed the signing of the 22-year-old Brazilian on a contract running until 2031.

It is a move that completes a journey which has been anything but straightforward. Allan's path to the Premier League was not a smooth ascent through the ranks, but a winding route that tested his resolve before it rewarded his patience.

What Allan brings to Maresca's squad

Allan arrives to provide depth and competition on the right wing, a position where City have relied heavily on a small group of players. The Brazilian is described as a hard-working winger, a threat in one-on-one situations with the ball at his feet, and a player whose tactical intelligence and work rate out of possession have been vital for Palmeiras.

Out of possession, his ability to win duels and press opponents will be a resource that Enzo Maresca will not hesitate to tap into. In possession, he is quick and speedy, a combination that should allow him to establish himself as a valuable squad member in time.

His numbers at Palmeiras reflect a player who contributes beyond the scoresheet: in 96 appearances, he scored 9 goals and provided 12 assists.

'The proudest moment of my life'

For Allan, the move is deeply personal. Speaking after the announcement, he described joining City as the proudest moment of his life.

“I love Palmeiras and always will – but the decision to come to City was an easy one,” he said. “I want to be the best footballer I can be and the conversations I've had with the people at City so far has convinced me there isn't a better place for me to fulfil my ambitions.”

He added: “I want to promise the Manchester City fans I will give absolutely everything to make the most of this opportunity. My intention is to help City continue winning trophies.”

That promise will be tested, as it always is at a club where silverware is the baseline. But for a player who once thought his dream was over, the opportunity is not lost on him.