Yes he is very fast.
I'm starting to think he could play a role for us. Always thought there was a top player in him. He is working very hard and also said that he learned more Pep in 2 months than in all his time under the previous manager or something like that.
@Neville Kneville and another poster made some comments in the Its Quiet thread that made a lot of sense. It did seem that he was suffering from nerves more so than lack of technical ability in terms of passing. Also played with a Clichy and Demi which certainly didn't help him along with carrying the burden of one of the most if not the expensive defenders in the word at that time. The pressure got to him. He is matured since then played in La Liga and rediscovered some form. Mangala had all the attributes we desperately need at Cb. A physical presence and is quick.
He would be perfect against West brom, Stoke, the rags and other similar teams that park the bus.
Also since the rumors of him possibly signing for a French club, forgot which one, surfaced a while ago there has been nothing about him while players like Nasri, Delph, Fernando, have been linked with many clubs non stop.
Could Pep possibly be thinking about keeping him for the season??
I would prefer we stick with him and spend the money on a goal scorer this window. With Kompany and Mendy next to him along with Walker, I think he'll do much better than before.