Teja
Full Member
- Joined
- Aug 17, 2014
- Messages
- 5,774
I think that's intentional given the compressed fixture schedule last season. A simple stat to check is the 'passes per defensive action' metric that shows how many opposition passes a side allowed before they attempted a tackle or an interception.They've regressed a lot over the years. There was a time where I would be completely in awe of the way they would suffocate and manhandle technically superior top teams. I used to be so impressed with that dogged intense style they had. They seem older and more jaded now.
They basically gave up on the high press last year and just opted to retreat and play it out the back again.
Not to say they aren't jaded - Guardiola burns out pretty quickly, that's why he needs breaks and switches sides so often. I'm sure his time's almost come - probably end of the season. It'll be interesting to see who they pick as a replacement .. they're very well run, so I assume they have a good replacement lined up, just don't see who it is. Only Klopp and Tuchel are in the same league and neither is available.