EVERY season, we look for the new tactical innovation that Pep Guardiola uses to go in search of another Premier League title and a debut Champions League crown.
Earlier in his City reign, it was his use of traditional full-backs, while in 2020/21 those full-backs became inverted to great effect. Last season, the false nine became City's (enforced) weapon of choice, while other seasons saw Fernandinho used at centre-back, Bernardo Silva moved around various midfield roles, and changes from fast, wide wingers to slower, more controlled, inverted wide-men.
This season, with Erling Haaland adding a focal point up front, Guardiola's new weapon of choice has been an unexpected one: the press conference.
All season, Guardiola has been searching for the right formula to motivate his Blues squad. He said recently that he had the feeling' that it would be difficult to keep the momentum up from winning back-to-back titles before the season even began. He has regularly pointed back to the last time City went for a third title in a row, in 2019/20, and the notable drop-off that was experienced that year.
Guardiola has tried to refresh his squad, by bringing in goal machine Haaland, or by promoting surprise package Rico Lewis to the senior fold. He has praised his players, he has hailed late wins as among the best of his reign, and he's even signed a new two-year contract.
Nothing has had quite the effect the manager may have hoped for.
This story is from the February 12, 2023 edition of MEN on Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 12, 2023 edition of MEN on Sunday.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Bethell relishing Old Trafford T20 decider
JACOB Bethell was pleased to get down to business for England after admitting he struggled to shut out the external noise during a low-key international debut.
Is this turning point that boss so badly needs?
Victory buys Ten Hag breathing space, but now United must capitalise on it
Food for thought for the Insta diners
Why we need to disconnect from our phones for the best eating out experience
'It would normally be packed but now! it's a GHOST TOWN'
Traders warn they won't survive the loss of spaces after water company closed car park
Man used trafficked woman to make more than £100k
A MAN profited from the exploitation of a vulnerable woman to the tune of more than £100,000.
'You imagine there would be a lot of barking but it was silent?
The devastating Manchester Dogs Home fire ten years on
Couple's home hit by car for THIRD time
Pair forced to evacuate property
Shopkeeper faces £20k costs to undo changes he made
Business owner was refused permission for work already done
Disorder'more anti-government than racism'
Barrister makes claim as thug who attacked bus during trouble outside hotel housing asylum seekers jailed
'There's no characters left'
Traders and customers' sadness as shutters come down on market for final time