Floyd Samba Scores Twice as Man City Thrash Norwich in Surprise No. 9 Role

Samba marked his senior opportunity with two goals in Manchester City’s 5-0 win over Norwich at the Etihad Stadium, despite being used in an unfamiliar centre-forward role.

Key takeaways

• The 17-year-old scored once in each half as City recorded a five-goal victory over Norwich.
• Manager Enzo Maresca selected Samba as the No. 9 after only several days of preparation in that position.
• Samba told Maresca he had never previously played as a central striker.
• Brazilian winger Allan also made an encouraging debut, registering a goal and an assist.
• Maresca said City could alternatively use Phil and Rayan as false nines, while Antoine offers another option.

Samba takes unfamiliar role in his stride

City’s academy continued to provide a notable contribution to the first team as Samba seized his chance against Norwich. The teenager was moved away from his usual roles to lead the attack, and responded with a composed display that included two finishes.

Maresca said the decision to use Samba through the middle was a recent one. “I am pleased not only because of the two goals, but because of his complete performance,” he said. “He was good. He has not played many matches as a No. 9, but we tested him there over the last few days.”

The manager explained that, after settling on the plan three or four days before the game, he asked the youngster whether he had experience in the role. Samba’s answer was that he had not played there before.

While encouraged by the result, Maresca made clear that Samba should not yet be regarded as a specialist striker. He praised the 17-year-old’s energy, strength, finishing and decision-making, including his passing to team-mates, but stressed that City must manage young players carefully and allow them to develop at the right pace.

Allan makes his mark on debut

Allan also made a meaningful first impression in front of the Etihad crowd. The Brazilian winger supplied one goal and one assist in the Norwich win, giving Maresca a productive debut from another young attacking player.

Maresca acknowledged that the opening moments of a home debut can be difficult, particularly for a player adjusting from South American football. He felt the appearance was important in helping Allan experience the different demands of the English game, and said the winger had produced a positive overall performance.

City retain several ways of configuring their attack depending on the opposition and match plan. Maresca pointed to Antoine as an available option, while Phil and Rayan can be deployed as false nines when a more technical central profile is required. Samba’s display, however, has given the manager reason to consider further opportunities for the academy forward.