Pep Guardiola Shares Insights on Man City’s Unusual Team Choices
Guardiola discusses his unconventional lineup against Salford and hints at transfer plans
Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, Salford, Transfers, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, Omar Marmoush
Manchester: So, Pep Guardiola had to get a bit creative with his lineup against Salford. He ended up fielding a defense that was pretty unusual, featuring just one senior center-back and a mix of academy players.
Even though City scored eight goals, their defense was a bit shaky. Nathan Ake, the only experienced defender, had to come off at halftime. With Ruben Dias and John Stones injured, and Kyle Walker wanting to leave, Pep had limited options.
He decided to rest Josko Gvardiol and Rico Lewis, who have been key players this season. Guardiola mentioned he had no choice but to go with this lineup. He also hinted at the club’s interest in two young center-backs, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis, suggesting more transfers might be on the horizon.
Guardiola pointed out that injuries have really hurt the squad depth. He said, “60 percent of the players are injured. Our back four or five never trained together.” It’s clear he’s looking to strengthen the team in the upcoming transfer windows.
City has already struck a deal to bring Khusanov from Lens, while Reis’s situation is a bit trickier, as Palmeiras wants him to stay until the Club World Cup. Plus, they’re eyeing Eintracht Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush, who’s been on fire this season.
[rule_2]