Manchester City brought in Malaga goalkeeper Willy Caballero as the replacement for Pantilimon, who left the club on a free transfer at the end of last season. Caballero had no reservations about signing for a big club like City knowing that he will have to fight for his chances. This was primarily due to the presence of Manuel Pellegrini, the City manager who made him the first choice at Malaga when he was in charge of the Spanish club. It is well-known that Caballero shares a great relationship with Pellegrini and it is thought to be a major reason behind the move to the Etihad stadium.
Since his arrival, though, Caballero has largely played the role of a back up to Joe Hart, who continues to be the number one at the club. England’s first choice goalkeeper, Hart was in danger of losing his place last season. This was after a series of errors that led to Pantilimon being selected as the number one goalkeeper on a few occasions. However, he seems to have put behind the form of form to provide some consistent displays. This has meant that Caballero, who started in the 3-0 defeat against Arsenal in the Community Shield, has largely been on the bench.
The 32-year-old, though, says that he is not prepared to spend the rest of his days at City on the bench and is ready to fight for his first-team spot.
“I knew what the situation was before I came here but I think that I made the decision because I was joining a big club and one that was able to win trophies. I also took the decision because I think that when you are inside a big team if you train well and you do well in games then you can play. You can be the No.1. I know that I am in the second spot right now. But if I do things well in training sessions then I can get the No.1 spot,” said Caballero.