What Does the Future Hold for Jesus Navas at Manchester City?

Jesus Navas’ move to Manchester City in the summer of 2013, one of the first signings in the Manuel Pellegrini era, brought new options to a side that had become somewhat predictable.

The 2012/13 had been a struggle. City were defending the title—their first in 44 years—but hadn’t improved. Roberto Mancini, the club’s then manager, had lost control of the dressing room and his squad had become fractured. The team was too narrow, and if Plan A failed, there was no Plan B to fall back on. Width and pace was desperately needed.

Mancini was sacked and in came Navas from Sevillia for £14.9 million to offer City a different approach. They were entering a new era with Pellegrini at the helm and finally had a player who could add some genuine width to the side to give them an alternative when necessary.

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Navas isn’t a world-class player. At times, he can appear one-dimensional. Those in the media and, indeed, his own fans have, with some validity, questioned the quality of his deliveries. But for the price City paid, he’s proven to be excellent business when everything is taken into account.

His crossing may have been criticised, but over the last two seasons, he has assisted more league goals (15) than any other City player. Full-backs are pinned back because they fear his pace, he’s a constant outlet on the break and the diligence with which he carries out his defensive work is remarkable.

Quite why he is the target for criticism remains something of a mystery, particularly when one considers the value money he has provided when compared to some of City’s other signings in recent years. How many others have brought a new element to the side for such a reasonable fee?

Given City are set to embark on a summer spend that could see some big-name arrivals, it’s likely Navas’ role will be reduced next season. He’s been something of a regular since he arrived and played 35 times in the league last season, but, in truth, City need a top-class ball-carrier who will improve the side. If, for example, Raheem Sterling were to arrive in this transfer window from Liverpool, Navas would surely see his appearances reduce.

But that doesn’t mean Navas’ days are numbered at the club. Players like the Spaniard are vitally important to any squad. A total professional who has never let the side down, he brings qualities that will still be utilised, even if his time as a regular starter is gone.

Before he arrived at City, he had carved out a reputation as being an excellent impact sub at international level, a player capable of entering a game and providing added impetus. When teams are tiring and looking more vulnerable defensively, the sight of Navas entering the game is frightening for defenders.

Perhaps it’s an element of his game we may see more of from now on. If City do spend heavily this summer—and all the signs are that they will—it could be a very new-look side come August. Navas will have to find new ways of impacting the team. 

The move to City has been positive for the player and the club. Navas was a highly respected winger in Spain, but he has hit new heights in the Premier League, playing regularly for a league-and-cup winning side in his debut season and continuing to play a regular role in his second year.

And City got themselves a valuable player at a fair fee. They may be looking to upgrade now as they attempt to reshape their squad, but they are left with an incredibly important member of the squad who brings serious pace and excellent work rate.

Rob Pollard is Bleacher Report's lead Manchester City correspondent and follows the club from a Manchester base. All quotes were obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Follow him on Twitter: @RobPollard.