Floyd Samba enjoyed a dream Manchester City debut on Thursday. The 17-year-old scored twice as City defeated Norwich City 5-0 in the League Cup third round.
Samba earned his first-team opportunity after impressing in Manchester City’s under-18 setup last season.
Samba Makes Immediate Impact
City manager Enzo Maresca handed Samba a starting role in an unfamiliar number nine position at the Etihad Stadium.
The teenager quickly showed his attacking ability. He opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a precise header.
Samba then doubled his tally early in the second half. He curled a shot into the corner from around 20 yards.
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His performance earned him the man-of-the-match award and helped City secure a comfortable victory.
Teenager Praises City Teammates
Samba described his debut as an unforgettable experience.
“To get a debut like that is mind blowing,” he told the BBC. He added that he could hardly believe what had happened but saw the performance as the start of a long career.
The young midfielder also credited City’s senior players for helping him settle into the team.
Samba said he spoke with several established first-team players before the match. They encouraged him to play naturally and remain himself.
He said their advice gave him confidence and helped him score both goals.
City Advance in League Cup
The victory sends defending champions Manchester City into the fourth round of the League Cup.
City will host Brighton & Hove Albion in the next round next month.
For Samba, the match provided a memorable introduction to senior football and an early opportunity to make an impression at the Etihad Stadium.
