Why Jeremy Monga saw City as the only choice
Jeremy Monga has offered a rare glimpse into the thinking behind his summer move to Manchester City, describing the club's pull as irresistible once they came calling.
The 17-year-old winger, who joined from Leicester City earlier in the transfer window, was the subject of intense interest from Arsenal. In an interview with the BBC, he admitted the Gunners' pursuit had been serious — so serious that he came close to heading to north London.
“It [Arsenal interest] was very strong because it was very close to me going there, very close,” Monga said.
But City won the race, and the teenager says the deciding factors were straightforward. The pathway on offer at the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders, plus the club itself, swung it. On the pitch, City's recent success made the call an easy one.
“They've been so successful that it was a no-brainer when City call,” he said.
Monga's ambitions are clear. He wants trophies, to be among the best, and he sees his future in sky blue.
“It's every child's dream to win trophies and be at the top with the best. Once I get the opportunity I just need to show myself, and once I do that, everything will take care of itself.”
He also revealed where he feels most at home.
“I feel like, to me personally, I see myself at City more. I see myself in blue.”
First minutes, first signs
Monga got his first taste of senior City action in the 3-1 friendly win over the K-League All-Stars, coming on for Rayan Ait-Nouri in the 62nd minute. It was a short outing, but enough to show why there was such a scrap for his signature.
He had a goal chalked off for handball, but not before showing composure to beat keeper Gu Sung-Yun. There were also chances to run at the defence down the left, where he looked a constant threat.
At 17, he is one for the future rather than the immediate present. He is unlikely to be a prominent figure in Enzo Maresca's plans this season, but the early signs suggest the hype is justified.