I said it when we played them away a few weeks ago, and I repeated it at half time: They had nothing. As long as we didn't do anything stupid, as long as we didn't force things, City would win comfortably. Frank reacted with subs pretty soon (around 60'), but never ever did he dare to tactically affect the balances. Never. 5-3-2 throughout the 90' -which by default meant much possession and activity for our full backs. Both had a significant influence although Joao could have done much better (on another day he decides the game himself). And, as usual against these kinds of setups, whoever would operate on the flanks had clear orders to stay wide, stretching their back line as much as possible...
As I said, for Brentford it was about zero risks. Just hoping for an error, like Leicester during second half. Damage limitation, the basic (if not the only) strategy. While for City it was about game management -and, in the process, about players management. Resting people, giving minutes to others. While conserving energy for those staying on the pitch. Mostly at walking pace during second half, the boys are aware of the schedule ahead of them. Still, if our decision making in the final third was more precise, we could have improved our goal difference, even without getting out of second gear. The only frustrating thing. A frustration that won't last though. Other than that, with Gabby and Cole expected to recover soon, all players will be available for Pep. Which means, his only concern right now, I promise you, is getting all the boys in match rhythm, after the two weeks break...
A final comment regarding the officials: We have already reached a point where we celebrate the obvious. Should I feel grateful for VAR getting it right vs Arsenal? Should I feel grateful for England giving the penalty call tonight (or vs Swindon, when it didn't matter that much)? The penalty on Raz is clear. But, provided you give Oliver the benefit of a doubt for not seeing it in real time, so was the penalty on Gabby at OT. The very definition of "a clear and obvious error". Which England, operating as VAR, never bothered to give. Something I will never forget. Do you remember, by the way, the "football lovers" commenting vs Arsenal making an issue out of that incident? Yeah, neither do I. As for tonight, like in the match at home, Brentford players had no hesitation bringing our players down in pure rugby style, as a poster wrote. Last night McGuire got a yellow when he should had probably walked (while Eric was punished with a red). In Sterling's case, we didn't even get a fucking foul. England joins the list of cunts. Period...
PS. Thank you Ryiad and Kevin for doing the obvious. The former has been crucial for the team during the last couple of seasons. As for the latter, apart from his unique talent, his sense of responsibility is an attribute I will hold in my heart as long as I live. I don't know how many times these years I've watched him providing cover in defense, like tonight. I don't want to be misunderstood, there is not one player in that team that will not contribute defensively, it's one of City's trademarks under Guardiola's helm. Just that Kevin has always led by example. The problems he's facing since the end of last season are well known, still KDB is always there, trying his best. Like his manager, I've never lost trust in him -he has always been, and always be, my captain...
PS 2. In reference to the above mentioned point, a recent story from my personal life. For people appreciating the concept of sacrifice for the team, players such as Kevin, Bernardo or Gabby, are a source of inspiration. I have a colleague at work, I wouldn't call him a friend, let's say we have a good understanding, and certainly a good relationship. He's a United fan, but he loves good football. He has talked to me repeatedly about the example those specific three provide. The day following City's victory at OT, we naturally spoke about the match. City had played a CL match 3 days before, and the guy was in awe regarding City's game management, as well as the sense of unity in the team (Pep didn't bother to make a single sub in that match). We also spoke extensively about the passing sequence leading to the second goal, with all 11 players involved. When I asked him: "Remember from who it all started?" I am not good enough with words to describe you his face that moment. A combination of deep sadness, embarrassment and jealousy. For people who don't remember, United lose the ball around the half way line after a BS attempt of a counter attack -while Kevin himself has already become the last line of defense! With all the noise getting out of that troubled dressing room and the variety of problems reflected on the pitch, my question was like salt on an open wound. Which is still bleeding...
He has openly admitted that he won't miss an opportunity to watch City -and you don't need me to inform you he's not the only one. Needless to say, he adores Guardiola. The first time I heard someone admitting, unless he leaves England no other club will ever have a chance, I think it was from him. Something you read frequently these days in social media. But he enjoys good football. If you ask me, for people like him, the only psychological attachment with United these days is their respect for the Ferguson legacy. Which is understandable. I am not sure if it's going to last though...
