Manchester City: Claudio Bravo set for New York MLS move
After being a core piece in yet another Carabao Cup victory, the future of Manchester City’s backup goalkeeper Claudio Bravo could be coming into focus as he nears a move to fellow City Football Group club New York City FC.
The subject of Claudio Bravo’s future has been in the air for some time, as his contract with Manchester City runs out at the end of the season. However, Bravo, who pulled off some spectacular saves against Aston Villa as City’s cup goalkeeper in a third consecutive Carabao Cup Final win, could be nearing a move to MLS with sister club New York City FC.
The move would allow Bravo to stay within City Football Group, and in the past the club has served as a bridge between the two leagues, with the likes of Patrick Vieira, Frank Lampard, and Domènec Torrent making playing or coaching transitions from Manchester to New York.
Bravo will in all likelihood be one of the best goalkeepers in MLS, although his legacy at Manchester City will remain mixed. After an error-riddled opening campaign as City’s first choice following a move from Barcelona in Pep Guardiola’s first season, he was quickly replaced by Ederson as the long-term succession plan to Joe Hart.
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However, from there, Bravo became a stellar backup at the heart of City’s domestic cup dominance. When called upon for rare first team action, however, he did struggle, as seen when he was sent off against Atalanta in the Champions League this season. Nevertheless, Bravo was consistently a top professional and a true servant to the club who helped City win silverware.
City seem willing to let Bravo go because they are pleased with the progress of on-loan American goalkeeper Zack Steffen, who has played well with Fortuna Dusseldorf after City signed him from fellow MLS club Columbus Crew last season.
For all his ups and downs, Bravo will be missed at Manchester City should the rumors be true and he depart the club. The Chilean has had an admirable career in European football, and perhaps starring in MLS is the perfect next step as the 36-year old’s time at the top draws to a close.