Manchester City has become synonymous with success over the last few years, dominating English football with an impressive collection of titles. After clinching the Treble, which included their inaugural Champions League victory, they went on to make history by securing four consecutive Premier League titles—an unprecedented feat.
While the depth of talent in their squad plays a significant role in this success, much credit also goes to their brilliant manager, Pep Guardiola. Now entering his ninth season at the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola’s leadership continues to push City toward more silverware. Recently, one of the key players, Ilkay Gundogan, shed light on the innovative strategies Guardiola employs to keep his team a step ahead of their competitors.
Gundogan Reveals Guardiola’s Winning Formula
In a recent interview featured on Manchester City’s official website, Gundogan explained how Guardiola constantly adapts his tactics to stay unpredictable. “With Pep and the type of play, every season there are a couple of small details in terms of adapting the approach,” Gundogan shared. “Every summer, Pep wants the opponents to not be able to read us 100% and always tries to adapt a couple of things.”
He added that the adaptation depends on the players’ strengths, ensuring everyone can contribute effectively. “I think that’s why he’s the best manager in the world because he sees things that others don’t see and he can transmit them onto the pitch in the best possible way,” Gundogan stated. “There was always a slight change. If you ask players this season compared to last year when I wasn’t here, there is probably another change in the small details. I’m used to it that there’s something he was adapting, so it’s not a surprise for me.”
Ederson Praises Guardiola’s Innovative Approach
Gundogan isn’t the only player impressed by Guardiola’s methods. Goalkeeper Ederson commended the manager for his innovative thinking and ability to guide his players effectively. Reflecting on Guardiola’s influence, he said, “Pep is an innovative coach, a manager who is able to make teams play in the way that he thinks is best, in the way that he thinks is most productive for the team. Anything that he asks of the players, in any way that’s different from what we’re used to, we’ll work on it because we’ve spent a lot of time together. We have Pep’s DNA already; we know the way in which he works, so it’s not as difficult for us.”
Guardiola’s tenure at City has seen him manage 483 matches across all competitions, achieving an impressive record of 357 wins, 60 draws, and 66 losses. Gundogan’s insights into Guardiola’s continual drive for innovation highlight why the manager has found such success in England.
However, with Guardiola’s contract set to expire next summer, City fans may want to savor every moment under his guidance, as his revolutionary approach has undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of English football. The question now is how long this winning dynasty can continue.
