Pellegrini Gives Dzeko a Chance to Prove His Worth

What a difference a few weeks of summer break can make.

During the dying embers of Roberto Mancini’s reign, Edin Dzeko looked consigned to The Etihad scrap heap. Now he looks set to be given a second chance under new manager Manuel Pellegrini, who has expressed his desire to see the striker stay and play a central role in his new-look Manchester City side.

As reported by Goal.com, Pellegrini said: 

"

I spoke two weeks ago with Dzeko when he was on holiday and he does not have any problems. He will stay here. For me, he’s a very important player. I’m sure that he will give this year the performances to show what he can do.

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The Bosnian cut a lonely figure as the last campaign drew to a close, when a string of poor performances led to his exile from the starting XI and criticism from the fans. At that stage, it was difficult to argue for him remaining a City player, but Pellegrini’s positivity about the role he can play has given some supporters renewed optimism that Dzeko can prove his worth.

Most observers of Dzeko fall into two camps: those who believe he has genuine quality but suffered because of Mancini’s refusal to play to his strengths, and those who see a player lacking the ability to make an impact at the Premier League and Champions League level.

His goalscoring record at City is decent, even better when one considers he has played in a City side bereft of width—which, for a striker who thrives on crosses, means his favoured line of supply has barely been available to him. Since his £27 million move from Wolfsburg in January 2011, he has scored 39 goals in 109 appearances in all competitions, many of which have been important goals for the club. 

Despite his goal scoring, elements of his all-round game have often let him down. For a big man, his hold-up play isn’t what you would expect, and his first touch, at times, has looked woeful. With players like David Silva and Sergio Aguero in the side, he needs to improve his ability to link up with them. 

There’s no question that last season was a poor one for Dzeko, and that must change if he is to win a place in the highly competitive squad being assembled by Pellegrini.

His attitude, which had otherwise been exemplary, started to deteriorate toward the end of Mancini’s time at the club. A few negative interviews and disinterested performances tested the fans’ patience, but the new manager’s ringing endorsement and some positive preseason form indicate he’s won over a few critics.

He’s being given a second chance, and it’s time for him to show people what he’s capable of. Another season like the last will end with him being shown the exit door.

Rob Pollard is Bleacher Report's lead Manchester City correspondent and will be following the club from a Manchester base throughout the 2013-14 season. Follow him on Twitter here @TypicalCity