After a dramatic 3-3 draw against Feyenoord, Pep Guardiola has publicly defended Josko Gvardiol, despite a series of individual errors contributing to late conceded goals.
The Croatian defender, who had already been sounded out by some as being at fault for goals in Manchester City’s heavy 0-4 home defeat to Tottenham on Saturday evening, faced further scrutiny after making costly mistakes in the midweek Champions League encounter.
However, manager Pep Guardiola was quick to back his young defender, who has been a shining light on countless occasions already this season, emphasising that the mistakes are part of his ongoing learning process at the club.
The game against Feyenoord was a rollercoaster for Manchester City, as they led 3-0 going into the 75th minute, only to concede three unanswered goals in a dramatic comeback from the Eredivisie giants.
Gvardiol, in particular, was involved in some key moments, with his errors directly contributing to opportunities Feyenoord capitalised on to claw their way back into the match in front of a stunned Etihad Stadium.
Despite the disappointment of the draw, Guardiola chose to focus on the positives, especially Josko Gvardiol’s individual overall performance when quizzed on the defender by reporters during his post-match press conference.
“He’s so young, he will learn. It will be a good experience,” Guardiola said, acknowledging that the mistakes are part of his growth as a player. Despite errors, Guardiola highlighted Gvardiol’s individual performance, “Of the players that played, he was the best player on the pitch.”
Pep Guardiola, however, was careful not to place blame solely on Gvardiol for the result, emphasising the need for collective responsibility. “But I would be so wrong if I point specific things towards him,” he added.
“He is so young, he will learn. He’s a fantastic player, a fantastic boy, and now more than ever he must be helped.”
The 22-year-old, who joined Manchester City from RB Leipzig in the summer market of 2023, has shown flashes of brilliance but is still adapting to the Premier League and the high expectations that come with playing for one of Europe’s top clubs.
Pep Guardiola’s comments reflect the importance of patience and support for young players who are still developing their game.
As City look to bounce back from their disappointing result against Feyenoord, Guardiola’s message is clear: Gvardiol, like all players, will face challenges, but it’s through those challenges that he will continue to grow and improve.
The manager’s backing is a testament to the faith the club has in their young star, and with time, Josko Gvardiol is expected to become a key figure in Manchester City’s defensive set-up, if he is not already.
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