S Poddar
Pep Guardiola has finally found a solution to Manchester City’s midfield dilemma, pinpointing Nico Gonzalez as a potential long-term replacement for Rodri. The young midfielder’s standout performance against Newcastle United showcased his ability to fill the void left by the Spanish maestro, earning high praise from his manager.
Manchester City resumed winning form in the Premier League with a convincing 4-0 win over Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium. The game was marked by an incredible 15-minute hat-trick from Omar Marmoush, whose ruthless finishing stole the spotlight. James McAtee contributed to the scoreline during the second half, gaining three crucial points for City and sending them into the top four after Chelsea’s loss to Brighton.
While Marmoush’s targets stole the headlines, Gonzalez’s Premier League debut was the one that really gained Guardiola’s admiration. Acquired from Porto on deadline day for around £50m, 23-year-old midfielder Gonzalez impressed immediately in City’s midfield, effortlessly linking up with Ilkay Gundogan to dictate the pace of the game.
Guardiola praised Gonzalez’s performance, highlighting his work in midfield duels and his possession-holding ability. “I think Nico’s presence helped us a lot because of 10 balls, the 50-50s, he wins seven and you can run,” Guardiola said. “When you lose seven, they will run.”
City manager also complimented Gonzalez’s mentality and potential, indicating that the club has signed a player who will be instrumental to their success in the long run. “I have the sense the club signed an amazing player for the future, mentality-wise. He’s so young, 23 remember, like a mini-Rodri. That’s huge praise – but there’s this sense for the big presence, the duels.”
Yet, Guardiola was quick to say that Gonzalez is still far from reaching Rodri’s level. “Of course, he’s miles away from Rodri. Rodri is the best. But I had the feeling, everyone had the feeling, that he’s going to help us in the last part of the season.”
The Spaniard’s absence has also been a problem for City this term, as his ACL blow created a midfield void that had impacted the side’s overall equilibrium. With high-stakes matches looming on the horizon, such as their Champions League tie away at Real Madrid, Gonzalez’s development as an available option comes at the best possible moment.
Marmoush’s debut performance was another big talking point. The Egyptian striker, who signed for City from Eintracht Frankfurt, produced a clinical performance that highlighted his goal-scoring ability. Guardiola had already glimpsed his potential in Germany and was not surprised at his influence. “Three goals, we knew it – in Germany at Frankfurt he made good numbers,” he said.
The City boss drew on Marmoush’s previous disappointments in front of goal but was certain that the breakthrough was inevitable. “Against Leyton Orient he had three chances there were no doubts about and couldn’t score, but we knew sooner or later. The mood of the team was good, and the performance was good. He demonstrated what he is. Hopefully, he can manage the biggest compliments that are coming in. It’s non-stop.”
Guardiola also emphasized how Marmoush’s playing style advantages the whole team, especially with regard to movement and speed. “When we played against Chelsea, he played well and we won. He’s a player that we missed, his movements behind and his pace. He likes to attack the space, and he helps to play with more time. When we play like we did today, everyone is better – even the manager!”
As City prepare for an important European tie, Guardiola will be counting on Gonzalez and Marmoush to extend their rich run of form. The team will have a big task on hand as they travel to the Bernabeu to turn around a one-goal disadvantage against Real Madrid in the Champions League knockout phases.
The arrival of these new stars provides City with a welcome boost, particularly as they go through a difficult part of the season. Gonzalez’s defensive solidity and Marmoush’s attacking flair could be crucial in City’s pursuit of domestic and European success. With Guardiola continually molding his team for the future, these performances indicate that the club’s new signings are about to step up to the mark.
