The more you see of Vitor Reis, the more impressive the young Brazilian centre-back is. Reis looms as a key component of the future of the Manchester City defence. However, watching Reis play against Brighton in Manchester City's penalty shootout win in their fourth round Carabao Cup tie on Wednesday night there is one conclusion to draw. Enzo Maresca must find a way to get Vitor Reis more minutes. He is ready for a bigger role in the Manchester City squad.
Enzo Maresca used Manchester City's fourth-round Carabao Cup tie as an opportunity to rotate his squad. The Manchester City fringe players were given an opportunity to impress. With the way the game played out, it was hard to pinpoint any one of City's fringe players who seized that opportunity. One player was Vitor Reis. The young Brazilian defender put in a composed display at the back.
In possession, Vitor Reis oozed class and composure. Playing against a Brighton side who are so aggressive with their high and energetic press, Reis didn't look phased. According to statistics on SofaScore , Reis completed 58/63 of his passes. He was composed and unphased by Brighton's press. That is a massive compliment to his talent.
Defensively, Vitor Reis was solid. He wasn't spectacular, but playing against a quality Brighton outfit didn't bother him. He held his own and compared to Marc Guehi, who played alongside Reis at centre-back, Reis looked the more assured centre-back. There is a composure to Vitor Reis' play when in possession or when he defends that is impossible to ignore. It is this trait that indicates Vitor Reis is ready for a more prominent role at Manchester City.
Vitor Reis was rewarded for his efforts with a goal. In the 72nd minute, he deflected a Rayan Cherki shot into the net to make it 2-2. Whether or not Reis meant to finish is irrelevant. He scored a crucial goal and it was a fine reward for his overall display.
At this stage of the season Vitor Reis has been on the periphery of the Manchester City squad. He has started both of Manchester City's Carabao Cup ties and come off the bench against Crystal Palace. But Reis is ready for a bigger role in this City squad. It is as simple as that.
Enzo Maresca will need to rotate his defenders through Manchester City's unrelenting schedule. You only have to look at Marc Guehi's recent struggles to find evidence of this. Vitor Reis is ready to step up. It is now time he is trusted when the opportunity is there. He is more than good enough and has the composure to handle more responsibility. It is now time for him to be utilised when his more experienced teammates are struggling for form or fitness.
Vitor Reis is the future of the Manchester City defence. That has been known for some time. However, he is ready to step up for his team. It is now time for him to play more often. Vitor Reis is a serious player who needs to be playing a serious role in Enzo Maresca's squad.
