Guardiola set out his stall for this competitors by signing three gamers for greater than £100m – and two of these, Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, began on their debuts.
Dutchman Reijnders described himself as “box-to-box” quantity eight when talking in Florida earlier than the sport and there have been early optimistic indicators too of what he’ll deliver to this Metropolis aspect.
Metropolis struggled with out the presence of Rodri in the midst of the park after the Spaniard’s severe knee harm final September, however might have discovered the proper companion for the Ballon d’Or winner.
Reijnders’ athleticism and studying of the sport was evident, displaying his capacity to get across the pitch to snuff out assaults, whereas additionally with the ability to select a go and drive the aspect ahead. He seems to be to have introduced much-needed power to a Metropolis midfield that was typically stagnant final time period.
“You’re feeling and scent it, a extremely good participant,” admitted Guardiola. “The tempo and within the last third with the ball, when he will get the rhythm he will likely be high.”
French ahead Cherki additionally confirmed his creativity with some neat flashes on the ball, however the 21-year-old could also be a participant that brings eye-catching moments in video games quite than controlling the play like Reijnders.
Guardiola, who left one other new signing, full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, on the bench, added: “Kevin is troublesome to switch, we all know that. On the identical time the membership determined for Rayan as a result of he has unimaginable abilities near the field. It was simply his first sport in powerful circumstances.”
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