Carlos Vicente has set his sights on a remarkable double-double for Birmingham City, aiming for 10 goals and 10 assists in his first full season at the club. The Spanish winger, who joined from Deportivo Alaves for £7 million in January, has already made the right-wing position his own under head coach Chris Davies.
Vicente opened his account for the new campaign with a clever assist for August Priske's winner in the Carabao Cup tie at Swansea City last weekend. Now fully adapted to English football after a settling-in period, the 27-year-old is confident that the team's growing understanding will lead to success.
Adaptation and Team Chemistry
Speaking about his integration, Vicente said: "Now after three months and a pre-season, the whole team knows each other really good. My teammates know me. I think this season is going to be good." His optimism is backed by a full pre-season under Davies, which has allowed the squad to gel.
When asked about his personal targets, Vicente revealed: "I don't like to put a number on it but if I can choose - dreaming is free - 10 goals and 10 assists." Achieving double figures in both categories is a rare feat in English football, and only a select few have managed it for Birmingham City in recent years.
Rare Feat in Blues History
Alfie May came close during Blues' League One title-winning season, scoring 17 goals and providing nine assists in all competitions. The last player to achieve the double-double for the club was Lukas Jutkiewicz, who recorded 14 goals and 10 assists in the Championship alone during the 2018/19 season, forming a lethal partnership with Che Adams.
Vicente's ambition will be tested as Blues prepare for their opening league fixture against Sheffield United on Saturday, a match selected by Sky Sports for live coverage. Both teams harbour promotion ambitions, especially with the play-offs now extended to eighth place, and both will be eager to start with three points.
Away-Day Redemption
The trip to Bramall Lane also offers Blues a chance to avenge one of their worst away defeats of last season, a 3-0 loss just before Christmas. Vicente is determined to improve their away form, saying: "We can't wait to play the first game. We have to get better in away games and it's a really good challenge to start the league. The team believes we can win every game and we'll be ready for Saturday."
With Vicente's confidence and the team's collective belief, Birmingham City will aim to make a strong start to the Championship campaign and set the tone for a season of high expectations.
