The Croatian international had spent much of his fledgling career at centre-back before last summer’s move to Manchester but has mainly been used as a left-back by Guardiola in his first season at the Etihad.
That has often seen Gvardiol take up a high starting position in the opposition’s final third with responsibility for creating space and playing in crosses for our strikers.
Pep on Premier League title race
Ahead of this Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League, Gvardiol has already made 31 appearances in 2023/24 in a season in which he has had to deal with a new league, a new position and high expectations.
Approaching the end of his first term at the Etihad, the 22-year-old believes he is adjusting to Guardiola’s demands.
He said: “I like to take a new challenge and it’s been a big one for me this season. I’m trying to do my best every time and of course I need some time to adapt and understand each other in the team.
“Being in the final third – it’s something new for me.”
Gvardiol has amassed a lot of experience despite his tender age.
The defender has won Croatia’s top flight with Dinamo Zagreb and Germany’s DFB Pokal Cup with RB Leipzig, as well as reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup.
However, with City again competing for the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup, Gvardiol is embracing the pressure that comes at the business end of the season.
“Every game is a new fight and new final,” he stated.
“You need to be ready 100 per cent. It’s a big challenge but I look forward to it. We focus on the next one.
“We learn every day as a team. That’s the reason I joined here – to learn and to win titles. Hopefully we continue in that way.”
Gvardiol also made it clear that his relationship with compatriot Mateo Kovacic has helped him bed in and feel comfortable on the pitch.
“I really understand the way he plays and it’s much easier for me when he’s on my side. That’s one of the good things. We have good communication.”
Crystal Palace v City app coverage
Our official Man City app allows you to follow all of the action from the capital in one place.
Minute-by-minute text updates will begin in our Matchday Centre two hours before kick-off, whilst our Matchday Live show will begin at 11:30 (UK).
Ian Holloway and Steve Howey, alongside host Natalie Pike, will be in the studio on the latest Matchday Live show, offering their expert insight at half-time and in greater detail after the final whistle.
They will also answer viewer questions throughout the broadcast, with audience participation actively encouraged on Matchday Live. To get in touch, send a WhatsApp to: +447537186538
During the game you can listen to live audio commentary from Alistair Mann and Andy Morrison while our text commentary continues.
Make sure to have push notifications turned on as well, so you can be alerted to key moments in the action, including goals, red cards and the team news.
Extended highlights from the match, as well as a full-match replay [available with a CITY+ subscription] will be accessible from midnight.
