Manchester City’s thrilling 5-3 UEFA Champions League victory over AS Monaco on Tuesday evening was a tremendous result, and may ultimately prove to be enough to carry the club into the quarter-final round of the competition.
One of the key components that evening was the work of striker Sergio Aguero at the top of manager Pep Guardiola’s line-up. The Argentine scored two goals and put the Monaco defence under constant pressure throughout.
Why Sergio Aguero’s Time at Manchester City Should Continue
Aguero arrived at the Etihad Stadium in the summer of 2011, and immediately had an impact that will last a lifetime in the memories of City supporters. 23 league goals followed that season, none more monumental than his last-minute strike to seal a Premier League title against Queens Park Rangers in the final match.
The 28-year-old’s production continued on and Aguero has scored over 100 league goals for Manchester City. But that could be changing this coming summer.
Until an injury to January signing Gabriel Jesus, recent reports pointed toward a summer transfer for Aguero. Relegated to the bench for the Brazilian teenager, it appeared a surprisingly rapid end to Aguero’s incredible spell at City.
Plans and feelings can change in the blink of an eye in football, with several events converging that should change Pep Guardiola’s vision for his front-line and for Sergio Aguero.
Attacking abilities
Ligue 1 leaders Monaco offered a stern test at City this week. Radamel Falcao, Bernardo Silva and Fabinho all turned in fine performances.
When the match appeared to be slipping from City’s grasp, they were able to lean on Aguero’s incredible attacking skills and quality. His two goals and an assist were crucial in reclaiming the lead and taking an advantage with them into the second leg.
Manchester City boast quality at a number of positions in their squad. But the ability that Sergio Aguero has to completely dominate proceedings should be an aspect that Pep Guardiola wants to keep as his own into next season.
Premier League title race
Chelsea currently top the Premier League table, eight points clear of second-place Manchester City. If Guardiola’s side are able to close that gap this season, Sergio Aguero’s efforts will likely have a strong influence.
Reports that link the striker to the Blues and Stamford Bridge would see a sensational talent leave the Etihad and join a major competitor.
The summer transfer window will likely see activity from many of the top clubs in the English first division. Not only will City want to keep a player as prolific as Sergio Aguero, but they will also want to ensure that he does not strengthen another Premier League side.
Gabriel Jesus’ injury
A fractured metatarsal in the first half against AFC Bournemouth was an unfortunate blow to Gabriel Jesus’ promising start to life in the English top flight. The youngster had scored three goals in only four appearances for City.
Jesus is undoubtedly a part of City’s future, but not all players recover from a major injury so quickly. It would be wise of Guardiola to keep Aguero within his line-up in 2017-18, as there is no guarantee that Jesus will return this season or be able to pick up right where he left off in the next campaign.
Sergio Aguero will forever be hero at Manchester City, and considering recent events, he should continue on with the club beyond the current season.
Main Photo:
