Guardiola joked about it before last season’s Champions League quarterfinal match against Atletico Madrid that he would “create fresh tactics and ideas” after ridiculing previous criticisms that Guardiola “always thinks way too much” of Europe.
The Catalan was not afraid to try new tactics in big matches in Europe and at home, sometimes with great success.
Guardiola played with Bernardo Silva, Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero as center forwards in their 3-1 victory over United in the Carabao Cup semifinal at Old Trafford. He repeated the feat in a 2-1 Champions League win against Real Madrid the following month. And last season, he played Liverpool in their transfer games in April’s draw of 2-2 to secure the title.
Some of the tactical dribbles proved to be disastrous, especially the decision not to have a recognized holding midfielder during the game Champions League final defeat by Chelsea2021: Aymeric Laporte as left back, Ilkay Gundogan right winger, in the 3-0 Champions League defeat to Liverpool in 2018.
“Phillips must fight Rodri for all of our good”
Guardiola’s plans for Saturday against United are still not clear, but he doesn’t want his players focusing away from Southampton while avoiding any injuries.
“The next game always is the most important. It’s more important than United, I’m sorry. “We can reach the semi finals and then go on to Old Trafford where we will try to put in a good performance. It is important not to injure players.
Guardiola challenged Calvin Phillips, his first-choice midfielder to replace Rodri, but said that Phillips must improve how he receives the ball at the centre-back. Phillips was initially banned for training and playing because he was reported to be “overweight” at World Cup. However, he is expected to play against Southampton.
Guardiola stated, “He must fight with Rodri to the benefit of everyone.” “Rodri cannot sleep and must feel someone close to him to help him. He must.”
Guardiola replied, “Why not?” when asked if Phillips could win the fight. It depends on Rodri’s ability to fight him. This is why big clubs need to have that type of feeling.”
“Rodri has a better idea of what we want. Rodri’s long balls Calvin are of a higher quality than Rodri’s. Rodri performs better in smaller spaces, in first actions or controls. He is [Phillips]It’s possible to improve the reception from the central defenders, but it’s only an issue of time. He has the ability to do it.”
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