Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, have been known for their clinical counter-attacking style of play under Pep Guardiola. The team has developed a system that allows them to quickly transition possession from defense to attack, which is often referred to as "the Pep Guardiola way."
One of the key components of this system is the ability to quickly break down opposition defenses with quick, incisive passes. Guardiola has emphasized the importance of having a deep midfield presence, with players like Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne providing the ball through the middle of the park.
The team also utilizes a variety of different formations, including 4-2-3-1 and 5-3-2, depending on the opponent and the match situation. This allows Guardiola to adjust his tactics based on the strengths and weaknesses of each individual team he faces.
Another important aspect of Manchester City's tactical approach is the use of short passing movements. Guardiola has emphasized the importance of quick, accurate passes between midfield and forward players, allowing them to create space and opportunities for scoring goals.
Overall, Manchester City's tactical approach is built around the idea of quick transitions from defense to attack. By utilizing their deep midfield presence, quick passing movements, and tactical flexibility, they are able to effectively exploit opponents' weaknesses and create numerous scoring opportunities.