Aleksandr Kolarov says he is full of admiration for Joao Cancelo and says he is a pivotal member of the City team.
The Former Juventus man is having a fantastic season at Manchester City and has become one of Pep Guardiola’s most important players.
The 28-year-old has made 15 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals with five assists from defence and is laying claim to be one of Europe’s best fullbacks.
Aleksandr Kolarov told the Sky Blues’ official website that the Portuguese international is “a great footballer” and “dangerous” in the final third.
He said: “It was quite clear from the beginning that Cancelo was going to be very successful with Manchester City, because he is first choice in his position and he is increasing his levels every season. He is a great footballer, and he can play on the right or the left.
“In fact, he is more dangerous on the left because he can cut in on the right and he has great vision, and he is often more like a midfielder. He is well-suited to Pep’s style of play.”
The Serbian also had advice for two of City’s upcoming full-backs, Josh Wilson-Esbrand and Rico Lewis, too.
“My advice to is to listen to other players and the coaches and be focused on the job,” he said.
“They can improve just by training with the first team who have won many titles in recent years.
“The fact they are regularly in the matchday squad shows they have the mental strength needed at that level.”
The Serbian left-back won the Premier League twice with City during his seven-year stay during which he made 247 appearances, scoring 21 goals.
He also won 94 caps for his country, during a wonderful career that he finally called time on in the summer.
