Thierry Henry explains what people are always getting wrong about Man City

Redaction Simon Brett with Dan Murphy
Published on 2024-03-05 08:30:00

Thierry Henry recently addressed a common misconception about Manchester City’s style of play. As the reigning champions of England, Europe, and the world, City have been dominating the football scene with their exceptional performances under the guidance of Pep Guardiola.

Last season, City secured an unprecedented treble, and they are on track to achieve the same feat this year.

Their recent 3-1 victory over Manchester United showcased their strength, with goals from Phil Foden and Erling Haaland. With a crucial match against Liverpool looming, City have the opportunity to overtake them in the Premier League standings.

During a discussion on Monday Night Football, Thierry Henry highlighted that City’s formation is often misunderstood.

While many believe they play in a 4-3-3 formation, Henry pointed out that they actually adopt a dynamic system that shifts depending on whether they have possession or not. This flexibility and adaptability make City a challenging team to beat.

The Frenchman said: “People always say that City play in a 4-3-3.

“Well, they don’t. They defend in a 4-4-2 at times and when they are on the ball they are never in a 4-3-3. It’s a 3-7!

“At times it’s a 3-2-5 but it doesn’t look like a 4-3-3. Your shape changes when you are on the ball.

“What you need to look at is the balance.”

Guardiola’s tactical approach draws inspiration from the principles of Total Football, creating a team that can seamlessly transition between attacking and defensive phases.

The key to City’s success lies in maintaining balance on the pitch, with players capable of performing multiple roles. Players like John Stones, Phil Foden, and Bernardo Silva exemplify this versatility, showcasing their ability to play in various positions.

Guardiola instills the importance of balance in his squad, allowing City to control games effectively. Their ability to adjust formations and positions swiftly ensures that they can counter any threats from opponents. This adaptability and strategic approach make City a formidable force in the world of football.

Read Original article on Manchester City News