Manchester City's signing of Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Pierce Charles is significant for several reasons, particularly in the long term rather than as an immediate first-team fix. This marks the second successive summer that City have bought back an academy player they previously let go, suggesting a pattern rather than an exception after James Trafford's return.
No Buyback Clause, But a New Trend
Interestingly, Charles was one of the few former City youngsters who did not have a buyback clause, as he was released at age 16 rather than sold. However, the mechanisms in place to protect the club when they move players on could prove important going forward. Any academy star may be more tempted to leave on a permanent deal knowing it doesn't have to be the end for them at City.
Development Over Cynicism
It would have been easy for City, if incredibly cynical, to bring Charles back and use him as a homegrown spot for their Premier League and Champions League squads, similar to young keeper Oliver Whatmuff, who was sent on loan to Stockport. Instead, the Blues have sent them out to play regularly, indicating genuine concern for their development.
Style of Play Key to Decision
The reason behind Charles's signing lies in his playing style. According to sources around the club, the one word that keeps coming back is 'style'. Charles plays as taught in the City academy and how club bosses want the goalkeeper to play in the first team. Pep Guardiola made a ball-playing goalkeeper fundamental to his time in Manchester, although Gianluigi Donnarumma was a departure from Ederson. Enzo Maresca has previously been clear about the need for ball-playing goalkeepers, and the signing of Charles indicates the club's commitment to this path for the future.
Goalkeeping Decisions Ahead
Maresca has decisions to make over his goalkeepers, with James Trafford set to decide his future after the World Cup. There is interest from several good clubs, and Trafford wants to play every week after a frustrating year behind Donnarumma. Whatever happens, the re-signing of Charles points towards the type of goalkeepers City want and the style of football Maresca aims to play, starting from his own box.
