Micah Richards commended Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic for his excellent performance in his side’s 2-1 victory against Luton Town.
On BBC Sport’s Match of the Day 2 (10/12/2023), the popular pundit also claimed that he feels Kovacic has found it a challenge to adapt to City’s systemic demands.
Micah Richards praises Mateo Kovacic after Manchester City beat Luton Town
Ahead of the contest, Pep Guardiola said that the Croatian international was “exceptional” in the first couple of games for the Sky Blues.
However, a few injuries seemed to have interrupted the former Chelsea technician’s progress at the Etihad Stadium, while he also had an off day when playing out of position as a defensive midfielder in place of the suspended Rodri in his side’s 2-1 loss against Wolves.
Micah Richards lauded Mateo Kovacic after Manchester City ground out a much-needed win against Luton Town.
“I thought Kovacic played well against Luton but it has been hard for him to come in and adjust to City’s system, and it’s the same for [Matheus] Nunes as well”, Richards said on BBC Sport’s Match of the Day 2.
Mateo Kovacic was one of the best players on the pitch on Sunday
Micah Richards is certainly right in hailing Mateo Kovacic, who was one of the standout performers in a Manchester City shirt against Luton Town.
The ex-Real Madrid maestro looked tailor-made to play alongside Rodri, whom he seemed to have struck an encouraging partnership with during the start of the 2023/2024 season.
Against Luton, Kovacic played a crucial role in helping City progress up the pitch as he broke the lines on numerous instances.
Phil Foden, who operated as a No.10 seemed to benefit the most due to Mateo Kovacic’s ability to spot him in free space in the middle of the park.
The 29-year-old’s ball-carrying was splendid as well, as he helped Manchester City bypass the hosts’ press at Kenilworth Road by bursting past opponents with his turn of pace and silky dribbling.
It has not been all smooth sailing for Kovacic in sky blue so far but once again, he proved why the club have made a brilliant signing with his acquisition.
