Manchester City has made another strategic move in the transfer market by signing Belgian winger Jeremy Doku from Rennes for £55.5 million. The 21-year-old sensation has penned a five-year deal with the Premier League champions, marking City’s third major signing this summer after Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic. This acquisition brings Pep Guardiola’s total spending to £163.1 million as they aim to defend their historic treble.
Why Jeremy Doku is the Perfect Mahrez Replacement
The young Belgian international arrives at the Etihad as a direct replacement for Riyad Mahrez, who departed for Al Ahli last month. While Mahrez brought creativity and experience, Doku offers something entirely different – electrifying pace and fearless dribbling that will add a new dimension to City’s attack.
“Manchester City are the best team in world football, so to be joining them is something very special for me and my family,” Doku told Mcw exclusively. “I am a young player with so much learning and improving to do. Working with Pep and his staff, and playing alongside these world-class players, will make me a much better player.”
Tactical Analysis: What Doku Brings to Guardiola’s System
Explosive Pace and Direct Play
Unlike most modern wingers who prefer to cut inside, Doku is a traditional touchline-hugging winger who uses his blistering pace to beat defenders on the outside. His right-footed dominance means he’ll likely feature more on the right wing, providing natural width and stretching defenses.
Dribbling Prowess
Last season in Ligue 1, Doku completed an impressive 4.7 dribbles per 90 minutes, ranking among Europe’s elite. This ability to take on defenders one-on-one will be crucial in breaking down packed defenses – a common challenge City faces in the Premier League.
French football expert Tom Williams shared his insights with Mcw: “Doku is absolutely rapid and beats players for fun. His stats in terms of goals and assists maybe aren’t where they could be but under a coach like Pep Guardiola you assume they will only get better. He has almost limitless potential.”
Comparing Doku to City’s Current Wing Options
| Attribute | Jeremy Doku | Jack Grealish | Phil Foden |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pace | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Dribbling | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Final Ball | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Defensive Work | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
This table shows how Doku brings a unique profile to City’s attacking options, offering pure speed and dribbling ability that complements Grealish’s ball retention and Foden’s versatility.
The Bigger Picture: City’s Transfer Strategy
With this signing, Manchester City continues their trend of blending established stars with young talents. At just 21, Doku represents both an immediate solution and a long-term investment. His development under Guardiola could see him become one of Europe’s most feared wingers in coming seasons.
For the latest transfer news and in-depth analysis, stay tuned to Mcw – your premier destination for football insights. What do you think about this signing? Will Doku succeed in the Premier League? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
