Pep Guardiola Explains Why Phil Foden and Nico Gonzalez Are Not Starting for Manchester City

Manchester City have more bad news before their Premier League game against Crystal Palace. Phil Foden was ruled out after getting injured in the Manchester derby. He tried to recover in time but the injury was too much and he was left out of the team for the game at the Etihad Stadium.

Foden, who is 24 years old was one of City’s best players last season. But this season has been tough for him, as he has not been able to play regularly or reach his top form. His injury adds to the long list of injured players at City. Rodri, Erling Haaland, Manu Akanji, John Stones, and Nathan Ake were also out making it six important players injureed.

With Foden injured, James McAtee started his first Premier League game for the club. Nico Gonzalez, a new signing in January, was also brought into the starting lineup. McAtee has scored six goals in all competitions this season and was hoping to impress in this match.

Nico Gonzalez joined City from Porto for £50 million. Fans were excited about his arrival especially because Rodri was out for the rest of the season. Gonzalez was seen as a player who could fill that important role in midfield.

He played in big games against Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Newcastle. He was very good in the Newcastle game and even got praise from Guardiola. But in recent weeks, he has not played much and was on the bench against Bournemouth and Manchester United.

Before the game against Palace Pep Guardiola spoke about why Nico Gonzalez hasn’t been playing much. He said that Nico is a good player and is training well, but he still needs time to learn how Manchester City play.

“I’m really impressed with Nico in training,” said Guardiola. “But it’s not easy when a new player comes in during a tough time. He needs to learn how we play.”

Guardiola said Gonzalez is smart and works hard, but he wants him to stay in position more. “I don’t like midfielders who move too much. He needs to stay in the right spot. He has the strength, and he wants to learn, so I believe he will improve.”

Guardiola also explained that in big games he prefers to use players who already know his system well. “I picked players with more experience for the United game. That’s not Nico’s fault,” he said. “Even Jeremy Doku, who has played really well, didn’t start.”

The City boss believes that Gonzalez will get better especially when Rodri returns. “When Rodri is back, Nico will learn a lot just by watching and training with him,” Guardiola said.

Manchester City have been hit hard by injuries this season. With many key players out younger players like McAtee and Gonzalez are getting chances to prove themselves. Guardiola is staying positive and believes both players have a bright future if they keep working hard and learning.