JUST IN: “I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again—Rico Lewis is the biggest problem in City’s defense. He was brought on for Akanji, who played very well, yet instead of staying in his position, he kept drifting into midfield. For what reason? Pep should have brought on Khusanov instead. I’m sorry to say this, but KDB’s time is up—nothing can convince me otherwise. As Manchester City fans, we are very disappointed with this game.

Man City Fan Raises Concerns Over Tactical Choices and Player Form

In a recent press conference, a Manchester City supporter voiced concerns about the team’s defensive setup and key player performances, particularly questioning Pep Guardiola’s decision to substitute Manuel Akanji for Rico Lewis. The fan expressed frustration over Lewis’s tendency to drift into midfield rather than holding his defensive position, suggesting that Abdukodir Khusanov might have been a better alternative.

Debating Guardiola’s Tactical Approach

The critique sheds light on a broader discussion among City fans regarding the deployment of young players like Lewis. Guardiola has repeatedly praised the 19-year-old as an “exceptional, exceptional player” and has utilized him in various roles, including as an inverted full-back to strengthen possession and midfield control.

However, this tactical flexibility comes with risks. Some fans argue that experimenting with player roles mid-season could disrupt defensive stability, especially when players are still adapting to new responsibilities. The decision to replace Akanji, a more natural defender, with Lewis raised concerns about whether the shift in dynamics weakened City’s backline. Even Akanji has acknowledged defensive coordination as an area for improvement in past matches.

Concerns Over De Bruyne’s Form

The fan also criticized Kevin De Bruyne’s recent performances, suggesting that the Belgian’s best days at City may be behind him. De Bruyne, who recently returned from a long-term injury, has had mixed displays, sparking debate over his long-term impact.

Despite an outstanding performance against Nottingham Forest, where he registered a goal and an assist in a 3-0 victory, some supporters feel his consistency has been lacking. With age and injuries becoming factors, questions remain about whether De Bruyne can maintain his elite level of performance for the remainder of the season.

City’s Season Moving Forward

These concerns reflect a growing unease within the Manchester City fanbase as the team navigates a crucial stage of the season. Tactical decisions, squad depth, and the form of key players like Lewis and De Bruyne will be critical in determining City’s success in both the Premier League and Champions League.

As Guardiola continues to fine-tune his strategies, all eyes will be on how City addresses defensive vulnerabilities and maximizes its attacking potential in the coming weeks.