Brazilian message Jo delivered of City intent

IN recent years, Man City supporters have become accustomed to seeing their side sign some of the most exciting players in world football. Of course, that wasn’t always the case.

- RICHARD FAY

There is no ignoring the fact that a lot changed in one go with the Abu Dhabi takeover in 2009, but the truth is the wheels were already in motion.

In fact, two months before City’s famous takeover, they had already broken their club record when they splashed a reported £20million on Brazilian wonder-kid Jo.

It was a statement signing for City as they fought off competition from Valencia for his signature. Things didn’t work out as planned.

Jo started his senior professional career at Brazilian giants Corinthians before making a move to Europe with Russian side CSKA Moscow two years later. It was in Russia that he enjoyed the most successful scoring period of his entire career, netting an impressive 44 goals in just 77 appearances for the club, including two goals against Inter Milan in the Champions League.

At the age of just 21, it seemed certain Jo would go on to have a bright career for both club and country, and attention turned to which club he’d sign for as he looked to take the next step forward.

There was plenty of interest in him from the major European leagues, but with playing time a huge factor in his decision, an unexpected offer stood out more than the rest. City agreed a club-record fee with CSKA for his signature, with Mark Hughes delighted to add such a talented striker to a side that needed an extra attacking edge.

“He is a big talent and a young man with a big future,” the Welsh manager said of his first signing at the club. “A lot has been said about him, and there was a big expectation on him coming out of Brazil.

“So with the success he’s had, I think it’s a real coup that we’ve been able to bring him to the club. He is a big guy, in stature and in ability, so I think everybody will enjoy watching him play.”