Manchester City’s new signing, Mateo Kovacic, has caught the eye of manager Pep Guardiola with his adaptability to play in different positions as he settles into the club. Following the departure of Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona, Kovacic is expected to step into the shoes of the No.6 or No.8 role in City’s system.
City’s sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, praised Kovacic’s ability to excel in various positions, making him a valuable asset for the team. During their first friendly of the summer, a thrilling 5-3 victory over Yokohama F Marinos in Japan, Kovacic demonstrated his versatility on the pitch. The Croatian international predominantly played in an attacking midfield role, occasionally venturing forward as the furthest City player during attacking plays.
Guardiola expressed satisfaction with Kovacic’s performance in his debut match for the club, acknowledging that the transition to Manchester City’s playing style might take time for the new recruit. He highlighted that it is common for players to adjust to the specific demands of the coaching staff in a club like Manchester City.
“He is an exceptional player,” Guardiola praised Kovacic’s talent after the game. However, the manager emphasized that Kovacic will need time to grasp the tactical nuances of his new team, especially considering he may be required to play in multiple positions.
The adaptability of Kovacic is seen as a significant asset for Manchester City, as Guardiola’s tactical approach often demands fluidity and versatility from his players. Being able to operate seamlessly in different roles allows Kovacic to offer tactical flexibility to the team while also providing cover in multiple areas of the pitch.
As Kovacic continues to settle into his new surroundings and familiarize himself with Guardiola’s expectations, Manchester City fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the full extent of his skills and contribution on the field. The prospect of Kovacic filling the void left by Gundogan and potentially excelling in various positions bodes well for the club’s ambitions in the upcoming season.
Mateo Kovacic’s promising start at Manchester City has left Pep Guardiola impressed with the player’s adaptability and talent. As he continues to acclimatize to the club’s tactical demands, Kovacic’s versatility could prove to be a crucial asset in the team’s pursuit of success in domestic and European competitions.
