Gvardiol’s effectiveness going forward is matched by his strength and reliability in defence.
At Old Trafford last Sunday, he played a key role in City’s unexpected win, helping them keep a determined clean sheet after Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute.
He largely contained Bryan Mbeumo, prevailed in nine of his 11 duels—the joint-highest total on the pitch—and attempted four tackles, more than any other City player.
Across the campaign, he has recorded the seventh-highest number of duels won in the Premier League and also sits among the division’s top 10 players for tackles.
His form has limited opportunities at left-back for Algeria international Rayan Ait-Nouri, who arrived from Wolves last summer and has instead been deployed in a more advanced role by Maresca.
Gvardiol endured a difficult Champions League outing in Porto, receiving a first-half booking before being withdrawn early in the second period, although it seemed to be an isolated poor performance rather than a serious concern.
He confirmed his long-term commitment to City during the summer by agreeing a new five-year contract, despite reported interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
The defender expressed his delight at remaining at Etihad Stadium, while noting that Maresca requires every player to compete for a starting role because nobody’s position is guaranteed.
However, Gvardiol should have little trouble retaining his spot if he maintains this impressive early-season form.
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