Something so simple has helped Manchester City find their groove again | OneFootball

Last season saw Manchester City struggle to run out matches as the toll of battles previously fought, age, and a seemingly endless injury crisis took a toll on Pep Guardiola’s side. As much as possession is king in Pep Guardiola’s style of play, the energy and work rate required to keep possession and win it back quickly is a key component of City’s play. The energy and work rate have returned this season to the City squad and while it sounds so simple it is a key part of Manchester City’s play and it has helped Pep Guardiola’s put themselves in a good position for what lies ahead this season.

Manchester City is the hardest-working team in the Premier League.

Statistics published on mancity.com, show that Pep Guardiola’s side has covered more ground than any other side in the Premier League. Manchester City players have covered 1269 kilometres so far this season. They have covered seven kilometres more than Arsenal who have covered the second most ground in the Premier League. City are averaging 115.4 kilometres covered per game which speaks volumes about the work rate amongst the City squad. With the energy back in the Manchester City players’ legs, they are a completely different proposition to the side that they were last season. That has been clear to see watching City play and the statistics just confirm what has stood out so far this season.

There is a different dynamic to the City squad this season.

This Manchester City squad is built differently from previous City squads. Players such as Nico O’Reilly and Matheus Nunes have added physicality and athleticism to the full-back positions. Tijjani Reijnders had added legs to City’s midfield and Nico has taken over the mantle that was left vacant by Rodri’s injury. Rodri will return and add his own strengths to City’s play. Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva have worked their tails off so far this season, and their effort coupled with their superb performances on the ball has given this City side a different look.

Up front, Pep Guardiola’s side is loaded with athletic, quick and powerful players like Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku, Savinho and Oscar Bobb add the energy that was missing last season. The entire City squad is working together and working hard and that has helped Pep Guardiola’s side build into this season.

Manchester City are typically lauded for their attractive possession and attacking play. But their work rate ans ability to cover the pitch has formed the backbone of their play. It is no coincidence that City are beginning to get back to their best now that the ability to work hard as a team has returned.