Teenager Floyd Samba scored twice on his Manchester City debut as the defending champions thrashed Norwich City 5-0 in the League Cup on Thursday.
The 17-year-old midfielder earned his first-team chance after impressing for City’s under-18 side last season. Manager Enzo Maresca then handed him a starting role at the Etihad Stadium.
Maresca deployed Samba as a number nine, despite the youngster’s usual midfield role. However, he quickly adapted and made a strong impact.
Samba opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a precise header. He then doubled City’s lead early in the second half with a curling shot from 20 yards.
His performance earned him the man of the match award and capped a remarkable senior debut.
“To get a debut like that is mind-blowing. I couldn’t believe it myself, but that is just the beginning; I have got a big career ahead of me,” he told the BBC.
Samba also praised City’s senior players for helping him settle into the team and encouraging him to play with confidence.
“I spoke to all of them; they have all been brilliant … giving me advice like, play your game, be you. Those words have given me confidence and helped me score those two goals today.”
City’s emphatic win sends them into the fourth round of the League Cup. The defending champions will face Brighton & Hove Albion at home next month.
Leave a Reply