Manchester City appear to have a new maestro in their squad, with some remarkable statistics emerging about Nico Gonzalez after the win over Newcastle United.
Manchester City produced one of their best performances of the season at the Etihad Stadium against the Magpies on Saturday.
The teams went into the game level on points in the Premier League, but it was rather men against boys, with City running out 4-0 winners.
Omar Marmoush stole the headlines with a brilliant hat-trick, with one goal being assisted by Ederson, who admitted after the game he’s been carrying injury.
Marmoush put on a finishing clinic, and looks to be someone who will take away some of the burden on Erling Halaand. James McAtee also got on the scoresheet.
But City had another top performer against Newcastle in Nico Gonzalez, who was the final signing of the January transfer window.
Man City fans loved Nico Gonzlalez’s performance against Newcastle, and some pretty amazing statistics have come to light following his showing.
Nico Gonzalez is first Man City player this season to attempt over 100 passes
Gonzalez was back in the team for City after missing the Champions League defeat to Real Madrid.
And it really was a stellar display from the Spaniard, who just dominated the game the whole time he was on.
As per the Daily Mail, Gonzalez actually attempted over 100 passes in the match. Remarkably, he is the first City to do this in 2024/25.
And Gonzalez wasn’t just recycling the ball and playing safe. He executed at least 10 passes into the final third, with an accuracy of over 95%.
The last player to attempt over 100 passes in a game for City was Rodri against Fulham in May 2024. City also won that game 4-0.
After the game, Gonzalez took to Instagram to send a message to fans after shining on his home debut, saying: “The best way to make my Premier League debut – winning in front of our fans!
“Thank you for the amazing atmosphere at the Etihad. Looking forward to many more special moments.”
What Pep Guardiola said about Nico Gonzalez after Man City beat Newcastle
City fans have watched the team suffer in a big way this season, particularly on the transition in midfield.
The loss of Rodri has been very damaging, and the Ballon d’Or winner’s return cannot come soon enough.
That said, Gonzalez appears to be a player in a similar mould to Rodri – and after the win over Newcastle Pep Guardiola even drew a faint comparison.
He said of Gonzalez: “Nico Gonzalez helped us a lot. I was really pleased because we needed him. It has been a tough three months.
“He is our mini Rodri. He has a huge presence, his pace, and his time at the Barcelona academy, it is all about the ball and positioning. He has the desire to have success in the Premier League, he is here to prove himself.”
That is very big praise for City’s newest signing, and a clear sign the manager is ready a big fan.
