Pep Guardiola Shares Insights on Man City’s Unusual Team Choices and Transfers

Manchester: So, Pep Guardiola had to get a bit creative with his lineup against Salford. He ended up fielding a defense that was pretty unusual. It had just one senior center-back, an academy defender, a midfielder making only his fourth start, and an attacking midfielder playing out of position.

Even though City scored eight goals without conceding, their defense was a bit shaky. Nathan Ake, the only experienced defender, was subbed off at halftime. Ruben Dias and John Stones were out due to injuries, and Kyle Walker asked to leave the club, which left Pep in a tough spot.

Guardiola decided to rest Josko Gvardiol and Rico Lewis, who have been key players this season. He mentioned that he had no other options for the lineup. He also hinted at City’s interest in two young center-backs, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis, suggesting that more signings are on the horizon to strengthen the defense.

He pointed out that the team is struggling because they don’t have enough depth. “60 percent of the players are injured,” he said. “Our back four or five never trained together. That’s the issue we’re facing. That’s why we’re looking to add players now and in the future.”

City has already struck a deal to bring Khusanov, who’s just 20, to the Etihad from Lens. As for Reis, Palmeiras seems to want him to stay until the Club World Cup in the summer.

On top of that, they’re also eyeing Eintracht Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush, who just scored his 19th goal of the season. He could cost over £50 million. Sounds like Pep has a busy transfer window ahead!