Pre-season: Man City’s Gvardiol opens up Maresca’s style of play after Inter Milan defeat

Manchester City defender, Josko Gvardiol has opened up on new manager, Enzo Maresca’s style of play and tactics following their preseason defeat to Inter Milan on Saturday.

He believes the Italian is capable of upholding the standards set by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. He is confident that the former Chelsea manager possesses the necessary qualities and vision to advance the team.

In a media interaction following the pre-season defeat to Inter Milan, Gvardiol remarked that the players are adapting to the new style of play and acknowledged that this process will require time.

He emphasized their commitment to giving their best on the field, noting that the manager is equally prepared to encourage them to improve.

He stated, “The level is exceptionally high, and he has been appointed for a reason as the manager. I believe he possesses quality, brings fresh ideas, and we need to determine how we will approach the style of play, the football we will implement, and the tactics we will employ.

“I believe he is the ideal choice, but naturally, it will take time. This is a completely new situation, and changing managers is not an easy task, so we will need time.

“It is our responsibility to assist him as much as we can and to listen in order to adapt as swiftly as possible. I have met with him, and we discussed my injury and how I played previously under Pep, and that is about it, more or less.”

Gvardiol recently signed a new five-year contract, which extends his tenure at the club. The defender had been in negotiations regarding a new deal last season and has now officially signed. Regarding his new contract, the former RB Leipzig player commented:

“As soon as I learned that Manchester City wanted to extend my contract, I immediately felt it was what I desired. The City fans have been incredible with me from the very beginning – and the club provides everything players could need. It is the best club in the world to be part of. I have experienced immense love and respect during my three years here, and I do not take that for granted.”

Since joining Manchester City from RB Leipzig in 2023, Josko Gvardiol has made 122 appearances.