Gvardiol's Midfield Forays Leave City Exposed at the Back
Enzo Maresca has wasted little time stamping his authority on this Manchester City side. Seven wins from seven matches in all competitions represents a near-faultless opening to the 2026-27 campaign. But scratch beneath the surface and there is a defensive concern that refuses to go away.
That concern centres on Josko Gvardiol. In possession, the Croatian has been immaculate. His composure on the ball, his range of passing and his ability to break lines have all been on show. He has chipped in with a goal and two assists in seven appearances, including the late winner against Bournemouth on the opening weekend and a key role in the 5-3 victory over Sunderland.
But the defensive side of his game is another matter. Gvardiol hasn't been at his best without the ball and that has been evident across City's opening seven fixtures. In Maresca's system, one full-back advances into midfield when City have possession, a tweak that mirrors Pep Guardiola's approach but with its own distinct flavour. Gvardiol has been the man tasked with that role from left-back in the majority of matches.
The problem is what happens when City lose the ball. Gvardiol is often caught out of position, and his advanced starting point leaves a gaping hole at the back for opponents to exploit. Teams have had joy attacking City down the right-hand side, an area that should be protected by the left-back but too often isn't. He also hasn't been strong in a challenge, and there is clear room for improvement in his defensive work.
Maresca's style is similar to Guardiola's, but the differences are noticeable. One of them is the burden placed on the left-back to both create and defend in transition. Gvardiol has embraced the attacking side of that brief. The defensive side is a work in progress.
City's winning run has masked the issue. Seven straight victories is a strong start by any measure, but the challenge for Maresca is to ensure that the defensive frailties don't cost his side when the fixtures get tougher. Gvardiol's form is the area to watch.