Manchester City’s issues at the back have always been well documented and watching them play sometimes, it makes sense as to why. The comical defending on display at times by the likes of Mangala, Otamendi and in his twilight Demichelis has been a testament to the fact why City are one of the easier to play against if you are an attacker.
Ever since the Kompany and Lescott partnership was disbanded, the Sky Blues have failed to suitably form another pair which could take the club forward and shore up the defence on a regular basis. While the likes of Nastasic, Demichelis and Mangala all did have their moments at times, they were few and far between. But we won’t be harping on about their bad luck with defenders and the financials that have been involved in it over the years.
We will be taking a closer look at a report which states that Manchester City have joined Liverpool in the race to sign highly-rated Celtic forward- Moussa Dembele. This comes out of nowhere as ideally City should be looking to solve their issues at the back. Mainly bolster the central defence and look for younger alternatives in the fullback areas.
But coming across this report, while it seemed a bit ludicrous in the beginning, subsequent thoughts made us wonder whether there might be a method to this madness or not. Yes, City attack is an ensemble cast of highly skilled players with varied strengths and experience. They are easily one of the most diversely talented and high-quality offensive players in the League.
But there is a dearth of an out and out striker. City have traditionally played with 4 strikers who were all capable of getting 20+ goals if given the opportunity, which was not possible in one single season. But the aptitude and ability were one of the very best.
And while we cannot compare Pep Guardiola’s methods to anything which comes close to the conventional norms, City’s recent policy has seen them go in determinedly to secure the top talents from across the globe. They have recruited the likes of Marlos Moreno, Enes Unal, Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus amongst others and are on a mission to give a youthful look to the squad which has stagnated over the years.
Dembele showed City exactly what they will be getting in the two legs of the Champions League group stage matches. He has all the attributes one hopes for in a striker but his best trait is his terrific finishing ability. His movement in the box is full of guile and his speed and change of direction have left many a defender flat-footed. He stands at 6’feet tall and is physical and extremely good in the air. He is full of energy and will-power and is a talent which can surpass all expectations under the stewardship of Pep Guardiola.
With Iheanacho failing to nail down a starting spot even when he is the only striker available, there seems to be a spot which is very much for the taking.
Celtic won’t be willing to sell but if the right offer comes along, they will have their options cut short in front of the financial might of the Premier League club.
