City focused on beating 1v1 on the wing, in order to enter the central zones while patiently building from the back. To support the wingers during such situations the wingbacks were staying wide and on the edge of the half-space closer to the wing.
Sterling was the under loaded side player and Nolito mainly played with the ball close to him. This was one of the main reasons why we saw Zabaleta in the center (ball-oriented) and Clichy in wider positions than the Argentine.
Are City in a good shape to face Manchester United after the international break?
This match showed how well Guardiola had prepared for West Ham’s back three shape. Manchester City through half-space teasing and movements in the space between the line used the weakness of the visiting team to score twice early in the game. Had it not been for the ‘never give up’ attitude and small tweaks from Bilic, West Ham couldn’t have had that one goal at all.
We saw Caballero being involved more in the play. He was quick, more agile than Joe Hart against Steaua Bucuresti, and made some quick thinking to get out of tricky situations. De Bruyne was not that adept to play the deeper role and Guardiola might revert back to a 4-1-4-1 with him and Silva as #10.
Except for Aguero, who might miss due to suspension, everyone else seems to be fit at the moment to face Manchester United.
With good results and smoother than expected transition from a more English style to a style which Guardiola prefers, City players must now be beaming with confidence.
