Premier League – Manchester City drops two points on the Newcastle pitch (1-1)

Jostled by a valiant Newcastle team, Manchester City conceded a logical draw on the pitch at Saint James Park early Saturday afternoon (1-1). Josko Gvardiol, scorer, was surprisingly the only player capable of creating danger in the ranks of the Skyblues against the Magpies driven by the talent of Anthony Gordon, in particular.

Eddie Howe’s players have long recited the plan of the English coach and his staff. A simple idea, but a difficult application: not to suffer, as Manchester City’s opponents have too often done. For this, pressing was the key. All the players were then concerned by this painful task which, when it is carried out as well as it is today, can put the current leader in difficulty.

The other important point was to fail City’s defense, sometimes misaligned or too deprived of the support of its wingers. Alerts of this type have multiplied for Josko Gvardiol, constantly contacted by Jacob Murphy. More in the middle, it was the very fair Anthony Gordon who caused a lot of concern for the Croats and his teammates. The number 10 signed the equalizer with a penalty that he himself caused after another deep call (57th).

An interesting score, but not enough for the success of a champion. Without shining, even delivering a disappointing performance, Manchester City was able to regain control as the minutes passed. To the point of putting in place, as is often the case, a real attack and defense at the end of the match. The vigilance of Nick Pope did the rest for Newcastle.

Without Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri, absent until the end of the season, Pep Guardiola had to review his plans. But the Spaniard is irreplaceable, at least for now. Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis were unable to take on the role of the usual leader in the middle, both in play and in behavior. His absence marked a glaring change in ball control and composure once in the opposing half.

Ilkay Gündogan completely sank before being replaced in the 66th minute. Too many inaccuracies and mistakes, the German is seriously lacking in confidence since his return from Barcelona. Jack Grealish played Jack Grealish with multiple shifts and back passes before making a decisive one for Gvardiol. Scorer on his wrong foot, as always in the colors of City, the former Leipzig player was the only real satisfaction of the afternoon on the Skyblues side. That means there is work.