The long discussed move of the shrewd tactician to Manchester City has finally come true shattering talks of him providing the remedy for the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United. The story was originally and apparently confirmed by Copa.es in June, 2015.
Finally, a citizen will most likely be treated to several mix of formations before he hones on to one and that his side will heavily rely on the wings deciphering the extent of talents like Raheem Sterling, Kevin de Bruyne and a fit Samir Nasri all revolving around David Silva, if he is around. He undeniably enjoys the brilliance of players who are strong in 1-v-1 situations on the byline, and will attempt to create this scenario as often as possible.
To make things more interesting, more will be expected of his star players especially Yaya Toure if he remains while Sterling will most likely go through a revamp of his playing style. All adding up to his requirement of high intensity, day in and day out. Ex-Barcelona maestro Xavi had mentioned of his shock at the level of training on returning to Barcelona after winning the Euro 2008, all during Guardiola’s first few weeks in charge of the club. He realised, that nothing less than 100 percent is expected.
That does not mean that an exodus of the aged players will take place. Rather, his presence in Manchester City will bring about a blend of beautiful tactics along with a renewed sense of appreciation for a club to many of its supporters, regardless of whether his performances in the first few months at the club.
The most entertaining thought of all this is the conversation around the arrival of his prodigy – Lionel Messi. The Argentinean has clearly stated his love for Barcelona – the club that has adhered to all his needs. However, recent banter surrounding Messi’s close friend, Aguero convincing the former on the positive side of life in Manchester, has raised a few eye-brows with speculations only growing considering the arrival of Pep Guardiola. At one point, the Sun had reported that the 27-year-old would be open to a move to City to the tune of £800,000-a-week.
Against all this background, anti-riches bashes have taken place across the world opposing Abu Dhabi owned Manchester City’s policies that apparently is ruining the game. Though the financial details are yet to be revealed, it is clear that any deal would be on the higher end of an eight figure sum.
Realistically, accommodating Guardiola’s principles will be a challenge for many players who are not used to the concept of closing down quickly and ball possession. But if one takes a rational view on the matter, transforming his techniques within the individual talents of the squad should only be counted as an opportunity – if appropriately handled. And, of course, having been re-united with executives Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano, with whom he developed a close bond whilst at Barcelona, is a sign of how Manchester City plans to connect the dots to an eventual supremacy in continental and perhaps, global football.
