Anderlecht manager Vincent Kompany has backed youngster Romeo Lavia to shine at Manchester City after making his debut this week.
17-year-old Lavia made the move to Manchester City last summer, signing for City’s under 18 side from Anderlecht.
He was quickly promoted to the Under 23 set up in January and recently found himself as part of the first-team squad under Pep Guardiola.
The midfielder was one of six Manchester City academy players to make their first senior appearance this week, playing the full 90 minutes in the 6-1 Carabao Cup win over Wycombe Wanderers.
He’s enjoying rapid progress, with many predicting that he could have a bright future at the Etihad as a result.
That is something Kompany is almost certain of, sharing his thoughts on the player after watching him make his debut for his former club.
“Of course, I would have preferred to see Romeo in purple first and only then in the blue of Manchester City, but I am very happy for him,” he told Het Nieuwsblad.
“City need guys with this kind of profile. When Romeo was still training with the A side, he showed he was eager to learn and listen.
“He picked up a lot and showed aggressive ball recovery and was also calm on the ball. You need that in that position. Lavia has what Pep Guardiola is looking for.
“Normally, as a young player, you only have one chance in a million to breakthrough immediately at Manchester City, but Lavia can make that happen.
“He’s such a rare player. I, all Anderlecht coaches and all his former teammates wish him all the best, and our door is always open for him.”
