Pep Guardiola’s Tactics as Manchester City Manager Will Surprise

Grey clouds had descended on Manchester City by the end of last season. They were playing poorly, limping towards a disappointing fourth-placed position in the Premier League, with a seemingly disaffected group of players. Manuel Pellegrini’s tenure had gone stale and the club was desperately in need of new direction.

The change since then could hardly be more pronounced. Pep Guardiola’s arrival has re-energised the club. The senior players, the academy stars, the technical staff—everyone is gripped by positivity and focused on returning City to the summit of the English game.

Every year since Sheikh Mansour acquired the club in 2008 has seen a determination to progress. Even during seasons where there was a downturn in results, there remained a desire to progress on and off the field. That was until last season, where there was almost wilful stagnation. Waiting for Guardiola was a must—but the wait saw regression on the field.

But this is a new era, the next chapter in the club owner’s story. City have managed to convince the world’s most coveted manager to join them, and the optimism that has defined so much of Mansour’s time in control has returned.

“The new manager has come in and he’s got his ideas. The big thing that I have noticed is that the intensity has gone through the roof,” City midfielder Fabian Delph told Sky Sports.

“Everybody seems to be pressing their claims and the new systems of playing have been very interesting. I’m really excited about the new season.”

Fernandinho, who is likely to have a key role again this season, has also reacted positively to the appointment.

“I’ve seen many games of his former teams and also played against them as well—Barcelona and Bayern Munich,” the Brazilian told James Robson at the Manchester Evening News.

“It was very hard for me to play against them because he made a lot of great players and good teams—and won a lot of trophies as well. But now he is on my side!”

Tactically, few can touch Guardiola. He thinks in unique ways. He studies the opposition, prides himself on outwitting other managers and finds innovative roles for his players.

Indeed, Delph has …

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