"In the beginning he was not that consistent in the duels — he was skillful but not that strong," Riera explained. "He became stronger in the duels and once he became a physical player, he was almost unbeatable. He was one of the best defenders we have had at Girona in the past few seasons."
Girona, despite fielding experienced names such as Donny van de Beek, Daley Blind, Axel Witsel, Thomas Lemar, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, won only nine of their 38 league games and were relegated by a single point. Had they survived, Riera believes many supporters would have hoped Reis could have remained for another season.
A crowded defence at City
Reis is expected to join City's pre-season tour of Hong Kong in late July, with players who participated in the FIFA World Cup 2026 given additional time off. Reports from Spain have linked Barcelona with an interest in Reis, but sources close to the club have described those rumours as "pure speculation."
The plan — for now — is for Reis to compete for a first-team place under the incoming manager, widely expected to be Enzo Maresca, who led Chelsea before his appointment. City's defence conceded only 35 goals in the Premier League last season, the second-fewest behind champions Arsenal, suggesting the squad Maresca inherits is already well-organised at the back.
Breaking through will not be straightforward. Khusanov and January signing Marc Guehi are considered nailed-on starters, while Josko Gvardiol has signed a new contract keeping him at Etihad Stadium until 2031 — despite reported interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich. Ruben Dias, 29, has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, and Nathan Ake, 31, could also depart if the right offer materialises. The departure of John Stones does open one avenue, but competition remains fierce.
City have also agreed to sign teenage defender Hermann Malonga from Paris St-Germain on a free transfer, though Malonga will join the development setup rather than the senior squad.
Reis' moment to impress
The pre-season tour represents a genuine opportunity for Reis to prove he belongs in City's senior plans. Riera is emphatic about the young Brazilian's ceiling.
"He has everything to become an important player in a top squad. We are talking about a star in the making. He is a very good prospect and will become a top centre-back in the near future," Riera told BBC Sport.
Should Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana decide that Reis is not yet ready for regular Premier League football, another loan move remains an option. One thing is certain — the Brazilian will not be short of admirers.
