Enzo Maresca may have been expected to take a cautious approach and avoid unusual lineup choices in his first Premier League match in charge of Manchester City.
However, he unexpectedly selected Marc Guehi as a defensive midfielder, and the bold experiment ultimately proved successful.
Before kick-off, much of the scrutiny had surrounded Manchester United and big-spending Tottenham after their disappointing opening defeats. For 84 minutes on Sunday, though, it seemed that attention would move to the Etihad Stadium.
City had lost 3-0 to reigning champions Arsenal in the Community Shield the previous Sunday and appeared likely to begin the campaign with consecutive defeats.
Yet Guehi produced a powerful late header before Josko Gvardiol finished calmly, completing an improbable comeback win over Bournemouth.
Maresca’s selection attracted attention before the game because it included six players capable of operating in defence, but the full extent of his tactical plan only emerged during the warm-up.
While the back four completed their drills with a City coach, Guehi appeared to be preparing for a role at the base of midfield. Once referee Jarred Gillett started the match, that tactical assignment was confirmed.
Rather than being remembered as a defender used in an unsuitable position, the former Crystal Palace captain scored a crucial goal and transformed the decision into an inspired move by the new manager.
The positional change surprised analysts, fans and even Guehi himself.
Guehi explained that the manager had introduced the idea during the week as the team explored new tactical options and different ways to improve.
He added that he was pleased the plan eventually delivered the desired result.
Guehi also acknowledged that he had rarely played in midfield, but said the support he received from his teammates helped him feel comfortable and focus on contributing to the team.
Maresca praised Guehi’s performance, noting that despite having no previous experience in midfield, he adapted impressively. The manager also expressed satisfaction with the commitment shown by his players.
The City coach said he had long believed Guehi possessed the qualities needed to play in midfield. After testing the idea in training for several days, he felt the defender handled the role effectively.
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