Gabriel Jesus: This may be real reason for Man City struggles after confession – pundit
Alan Hutton has suggested Gabriel Jesus does not fit into Pep Guardiola’s desired “brand of football” at Man City despite a standout display against Liverpool.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, heralded the 25-year-old as a gamechanger in Sunday’s 2-2 draw.
The Brazilian was a constant thorn in the Reds’ side, scoring City’s second in what was only his second league start of 2022.
Speaking to ESPN after the game (10 April), Jesus confessed he has struggled with the constant squad rotation and playing as a winger rather than a natural centre-forward.
He admitted he hopes Sunday’s performance helps him “regain confidence”.
However, Hutton suggested Guardiola would want to turn to other players first.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He does give you something different. I think it is his running power.
“Man City want to work the ball wide, they want to get cut backs. They want to play a certain brand of football. Is he totally that type? I’m not sure.
“He’s a different profile to the likes of Foden, Grealish, Silva and Sterling.
“He does give you something different on days like this. I think you need that running power against the likes of Liverpool to get behind the full-backs. To ruffle up the defenders.
“That’s why I think he thrives on these kinds of games. He’s got that aggression that also helps. I think that’s why he did so well and it was good he got his goal.”
A natural centre-forward, Jesus has scored seven goals and contributed 10 assists in 32 appearances this term.
He has featured as frequently as a right-sided winger as he has done a striker this season.
In other news, a pundit has claimed Guardiola ‘doesn’t trust’ Jack Grealish after Man City decision is confirmed.