Manchester City Sign Brazilian Defender Vitor Reis From Palmeira

Man City Officially Unveil Vitor Reis: Shirt Number, Contract Length, and Potential Debut Details. 

 

Manchester City have announced the signing of highly-rated Brazilian defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras for a reported €35 million (£29.6 million). The 19-year-old center-back is Pep Guardiola’s second acquisition of the January transfer window, following the earlier arrival of defender Abdukodir Khusanov, who joined from Lens in a €40 million move.

Reis has inked a four-and-a-half-year deal, which will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2029. He will don the No.22 shirt, a number previously associated with versatility and reliability in the Manchester City squad. Despite making just 22 senior appearances for Palmeiras, Reis has been touted as one of the brightest defensive prospects in global football.

 

Vitor Reis Shares Excitement on Joining Man City

Speaking to the club’s official website, Reis expressed his excitement about joining Manchester City:

“I’m excited to join Manchester City, one of the biggest clubs in the world. Everyone has seen the amazing achievements in recent seasons, and I want to make my mark as we seek more trophies.

“Working with Pep Guardiola is something every young player dreams of. I know he can help me develop into the best player I can be. City also has a great history with Brazilian players, and joining the likes of Ederson and Savinho will make my transition smoother.”

 

Director of Football’s Thoughts on Vitor Reis

City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, shared his thoughts on the signing:

“Vitor Reis is one of the most promising young defenders in the world, and we are thrilled to have secured his services.

“In a short span of senior football, he has demonstrated immense potential. He is excellent on the ball, dominant in the air, and possesses all the attributes needed to become one of the best. We believe he can contribute to the team immediately and evolve into a critical player for the future.”

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Potential Debut and Immediate Plans

While Reis will not feature in Manchester City’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain this week, he is expected to be integrated into Guardiola’s first-team plans. His debut could come as early as Saturday’s Premier League match against Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium.

Who Is Vitor Reis? A Closer Look

Born on January 12, 2005, in São Paulo, Brazil, Vitor Reis started his footballing journey at the R10 Academy, founded by former Brazilian and Manchester City star Robinho. He joined Palmeiras in 2016 at just 10 years old, rising through the ranks to become a standout performer at both youth and senior levels.

Reis made his senior debut in June 2024 and went on to start 16 matches in the Brasileirão, earning a place in the 2024 Brazilian League Team of the Year. Additionally, he was named by The Guardian as one of the most promising players born in 2006, alongside his former Palmeiras teammate Endrick, now at Real Madrid.

Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, Reis is versatile, capable of playing both as a center-back and a full-back. His physicality, aerial dominance, and ability to play progressive passes align well with Manchester City’s possession-based philosophy.

“I’m a determined player who loves challenges,” Reis said. “City’s style of play suits me, and I’m eager to prove myself here. I’ll give everything for the badge and the fans.”

 

How Vitor Reis Strengthens Man City

Reis arrives at a time when Manchester City’s defense has been plagued by injuries. With players like Ruben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji frequently sidelined, Guardiola has had to improvise, impacting the team’s consistency.

Reis’ addition offers depth and long-term stability to a defensive unit that has struggled for fitness. His ability to adapt to multiple roles in the backline also adds tactical flexibility for Guardiola, especially in high-stakes matches across domestic and European competitions.

Memorable Moments in Vitor Reis’ Young Career

  • 2022: Signed his first professional contract with Palmeiras.
  • 2024: Made 16 starts in the Brasileirão and earned a place in the Brazilian League Team of the Year.
  • January 2025: Completed a €35 million transfer to Manchester City.

What This Signing Means for Manchester City

Reis’ arrival signals Manchester City’s commitment to building for the future while remaining competitive in the present. Guardiola’s focus on nurturing young talents like Reis and Khusanov highlights the club’s emphasis on sustainable success.

 

With Vitor Reis now officially a Citizen, the stage is set for the young defender to flourish under Guardiola’s guidance, contributing to Manchester City’s quest for dominance on all fronts.