Previously competing for two places, the middle three were lined up together for the first time ever. With for the occasion a more advanced position for Tielemans, who became number 10 in Unai Emery's 4-2-3-1. Or the same role as Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City. The latter, totally helpless from the bench (like Jérémy Doku, only brought on in the 84th minute), probably appreciated the gesture of his compatriot on the 1-0: a bright pass to find Rogers.
gullThat was the plan, to have Onana and Kamara behind.
“I saw the space and tried to send the ball as best as I couldrejoiced Tielemans who visibly appreciated his more offensive position. I was a little freer in this role. That was the plan, to have Onana and Kamara behind and lock everything in the back. They did a really good job and it helped me a lot knowing I had those two behind me. I could move forward more easily.”
Beyond this decisive opening, Tielemans shined on both sides of the field (numerous forward passes, several breakthroughs, decisive tackles and four duels won) to win the man of the match title. “We showed great character and we showed we can play good Football. We really deserve the victory. It's always difficult against Manchester City. We know they may not have won as much as in previous years, but they're a class team, so it's an honor for us.”
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The nightmare continues
Before their Boxing Day in Newcastle, Tielemans and Onana are smiling. While the morale of KDB and Doku continues to deteriorate. The Citizens (27 pts and 6th in the standings) have now lost more (9) in twelve matches than in the previous 106 matches (8)… For comparison, Arsenal have not had such a series since 1977, so that we have to go back to 1954 for Liverpool.
“The solution is to bring the players back, insists Pep Guardiola who despite everything maintains the unwavering support of his players and his club. We only had one fit central defender, it's difficult (Editor's note: Dias, Akanji and Aké are 100% injured or not). Of course, there are other reasons. We concede the goals we haven't conceded in the past, we don't score the goals we have scored in the past. Football is not just one reason. There are a lot of little factors.”
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