Old foes José Mourinho and Pep Guardiola met again in the Premier League as Tottenham Hotspur faced Manchester City last weekend. Creative tactics from both managers as well as exhilarating VAR-induced drama made the thrilling fixture successfully lived up the expectations.
From Mourinho’s disciplined defending to Guardiola’s inspiring offensive set-up, all were displayed brilliantly in this game. It’s safe to say that this high-octane match was a solace for the fans as the Premier League heading to its first-ever winter break until mid-February. This tactical analysis will inform you how the match unfolded.
Lineups
Mourinho fielded his team in his preferred 4–2–3–1. Japhet Tanganga once again was picked to start the game, now partnered with Serge Aurier as Tottenham’s full-back pairing. The trio of Son Heung-min, Dele Alli, and new recruit Steven Bergwijn was chosen to support Lucas Moura upfront. Names like Erik Lamela, Eric Dier, and Tanguy Ndombele had to start the game from the bench.
In the opposite side, Guardiola set his team up in 4–3–3. The 4–4–2 as suggested by Wyscout above was deployed mainly when Manchester City didn’t have the ball; only 34% from the total possession. Nicolás Otamendi and Fernandinho started as the centre-back pairing, with Rodri supporting the duo as a single pivot. Up top, talisman Sergio Agüero spearheaded the attacking line with Riyad Mahrez and Raheem Sterling alongside him. The dugout was filled with names like Gabriel Jesus, Bernardo Silva, and João Cancelo.
