Like any manager, Pep Guardiola must be familiar with aspects of his players’ playing styles at Manchester City that the rest of the world is not.
In February 2021, Guardiola noted via BBC Sport that he has always stated that Ilkay Gundogan could play as a striker and “people laughed” as the German’s goalscoring exploits spearheaded City’s Premier League title triumph.
However, the Manchester City boss must also learn new things about his players every time he works with them.
Whether that is in training or during games, Pep Guardiola must make fresh observations about how they play and make tactical adjustments on that basis.
For instance, during his debut season at the Etihad Stadium, it was a rarity to witness Josko Gvardiol drift into midfield from left-back.
The Croatian was often asked to stay wide and hug the touchline.
Guardiola stunned by something Man City star did against Newcastle
Perhaps a key reason behind that being the case is because the Catalan did not wish to overburden the 22-year-old with information.
But this campaign, the £77.6 million man has often been asked to tuck into midfield.
Against Newcastle United, the former RB Leipzig defender would often look akin to an attacking midfielder when the visitors had the ball at St. James’ Park.
The versatile centre-back’s goal also emerged from a central position.
The Premier League champion was fed the ball inside the box as he shifted it on to his weaker right foot and slotted it past Nick Pope.
After Manchester City drew 1-1 to Newcastle, Pep Guardiola revealed he was unaware of Gvardiol being such a class finisher.
Guardiola said via BBC Sport: “I did not know [he had that finishing ability]. In small spaces, he is really good. His ability to turn and finish.”
Josko Gvardiol strikes the ball extremely well
Not just for a defender but for any player on the pitch, the way that Gvardiol strikes the ball is very impressive.
The ex-Dinamo Zagreb’s incredible finish against Real Madrid from long distance was his first in a City shirt and an indicator of how well he can strike the ball.
Gvardiol’s curled finish into the top corner against Luton Town was another example of his eye for goal, especially with his right foot.
If the Manchester City colossus can add goals to his lack, he could cement his name as a genuinely world-class left-back.
It will be interesting to see if Gvardiol focuses on this aspect of his game.
Especially considering Pep Guardiola has been left impressed with his finishing.
