Monday’s edition of Portuguese newspaper Record has a lengthy article on Hugo Viana and and the Manchester City process of choosing him to be their next director of sport.
Txiki Begiristain is set to leave the Premier League champions at the end of the current season, and Viana being his replacement was announced not long after the news about the Spaniard.
Record explain that doesn’t mean it was a whirlwind appointment or choice, and Manchester City’s consideration had been over a period of months.
Hugo Viana managed to impress both Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano with the work he’s done whilst at Sporting CP.
At one point there were dozens of names that Manchester City had as possibilities, with Viana’s ‘discreet and reserved profile’ helping him against some others.
Record report that it came down to a final two of Viana and Girona’s Quique Cárcel. However, the latter wanted to remain in Catalonia and that helped Manchester City rid themselves of any doubt over who to appoint.
Viana managing to keep himself clear of controversies has been see as another plus, as has his ability to form a close relationship with coaches. His relationship with Ruben Amorim has been key for Sporting’s success.
The purchases of Viktor Gyökeres and Morten Hjulmand are given as another factor which impressed Manchester City.
Added all together, that’s why Hugo Viana is moving to Manchester City.
