A timely reminder came of the quality of a Manchester City midfielder | OneFootball

Given the battle Rodri faced to get back to full fitness earlier this season, Nico’s performances in midfield were crucial to Manchester City. There is a massive argument to make that City wouldn’t be in contention for four trophies without Nico’s contribution. When Rodri returned to the starting lineup and rediscovered his form, Nico has been on the periphery of the City squad. The Spanish midfielder has overcome an injury but has been on the bench recently. As Manchester City beat Newcastle 3-1 in their FA Cup fifth-round tie on the weekend, Nico gave everyone a timely reminder of his quality. Nico’s performance at St. James’ Park was superb as he helped City dominate the midfield battle.

Nico played a key role for Manchester City in their win over Newcastle.

Winning the midfield battle at St. James’ Park was a key element for Manchester City in their win over Newcastle. After a tough opening 20 minutes, City gained control of the match and midfield. Nico and Nico O’Reilly were key in City’s midfield dominance. Nico O’Reilly’s importance to this City team is well-known. Looking at Nico, the Spanish midfielder reminded everyone of his quality, which has been overlooked as Rodri has returned.

Nico was brilliant both in and out of possession against Newcastle. The Spanish midfielder played several key passes throughout City’s win. One of those key passes led directly to Omar Marmoush’s second goal of the night. Nico picked out Matheus Nunes, who drove at the Newcastle defence. Nunes teed up Marmoush, who effectively ended the match as a contest. Nico’s sublime pass set up the move that led to City’s third goal.

Throughout Manchester City’s win, Nico was strong defensively. He assessed the danger well, and his positioning was superb. More often than not, Nico broke up Newcastle’s play. Nico’s all-around performance was exceptional and was also a timely reminder of his quality and ability to do a job for Manchester City if Rodri is forced to miss any matches or needs a rest.

Pep Guardiola was pleased with Nico’s performance at St. James’ Park.

Pep Guardiola was full of praise for Nico’s performance against Newcastle. Speaking on Nico’s display he said: “He played so good. Nico help us a lot in the absence of Rodri and today back again, I think his partnership with Nico O’Reilly was outstanding both physicality and when they had the ball. It was really, really cool.”

Nico has had a strong season for Manchester City. Unfortunately for him, as Rodri has regained his form and fitness, Nico has predominantly been on the bench recently. Nico reminded everyone of his quality against Newcastle, and if he is called upon to start in midfield, the Spanish midfielder is ready and able to play a key role for his team.