Addressing City’s Struggles in Build-Up Play
Manchester City recently struggled at Old Trafford where their centre-backs enjoyed plenty of time and space on the ball yet failed to capitalise due to absent key players like John Stones Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias. Marc Guehi stands out as a solution thanks to his strong ability on the ball. Comfortable passing and dribbling with either foot he excels at carrying possession forward when opponents sit deep which often happens against City.
Guehi frequently advances play through progressive carries or switches the field effectively. Last season he averaged 7.3 long passes per ninety minutes with 45.7 percent accuracy demonstrating reliability in hitting accurate diagonals or long balls. This addresses City’s recent issue of lacking options when one side becomes overloaded with defenders.
Tactical Versatility Suited to Guardiola’s System
City typically keep both centre-backs deep during possession phases allowing full-backs to advance high. Occasionally Bernardo Silva drops between the centre-backs to create a temporary back three. Guehi adapts seamlessly to such setups having played both left-sided and right-sided centre-back roles in a back four for Crystal Palace and England plus all three positions in a back three.
His comfort in any of these spots ensures he fits Guardiola’s fluid defensive structure without adjustment issues. While aerial duels are not his strongest suit Guehi performs well in ground battles especially on the left flank using his body intelligently to shield and recover possession.
Defensive Cover and Leadership for the Future
With City’s attacking full-backs pushing forward aggressively Guehi offers crucial cover through his two-footed tackling and ability to step into midfield areas. This helps maintain balance when opponents counter after high pressing.
Pep Guardiola has praised young talents like Abdukodir Khusanov and Juma Alleyne lately but has highlighted the need for experienced leadership without Ruben Dias. Guehi brings that as a proven Premier League captain providing a vocal presence and guidance for City’s developing defenders.
Considering frequent injuries to Stones and Nathan Ake plus their advancing years this move looks smart and timely strengthening City’s options for the long term.
