Man City revived in the Premier League thanks to 4 supporting actors

Manchester City have made a strong breakthrough in the title race. From the touchline to the midfield, the four “supporting actors” – Jeremy Doku, Matheus Nunes, Nico Gonzalez and Nico O'Reilly – are laying the foundations for a revival that is true to Pep Guardiola's philosophy of perseverance.

In the fierce and long-running Premier League race, Guardiola has always believed that the title is not decided in November. The key is to accelerate at the right time. The rise of positions once considered the weakest is giving Man City the momentum they need, and giving the manager optimism for the confrontation with Mikel Arteta of Arsenal.

Jeremy Doku unlocks Liverpool's defence

Going toe to toe with Liverpool’s elite defenders, Doku showed he was a fast and unpredictable drill. Despite not being highly rated for his finishing, the Belgian still scored a classy goal and constantly stretched the opposition’s defensive structure.

Doku's ability to dribble and attract players opens up space for his teammates, turning Man City's left flank into a stable explosive point in the Premier League.

Matheus Nunes dominates midfield

In midfield, Nunes responded strongly. His assist for Erling Haaland's opener showed the technical qualities of an expensive midfielder.

More importantly, Nunes leads the game in defensive interventions, from tackles to interceptions to recoveries. His markedly reduced error rate has allowed him to operate a shuttle role, ensuring Man City control the midfield in high-intensity Premier League games.

Nico O'Reilly locks down Mohamed Salah

On the flank, O'Reilly brought a remarkable solidity when facing a top striker. He "pocketed" Mohamed Salah with his composure, judgment and fierce tackling, making Man City's flank almost impregnable.

Guardiola admitted: “Salah has been a nightmare for many years. Nico has had to play aggressively and improve. I am very happy with his performance.”

Nico Gonzalez replaces Rodri, reinforcing the balance

Gonzalez has emerged as the midfield anchor in Rodri's absence. With his tactical intelligence, versatile passing ability and diligence in the collecting role, he provides the necessary balance between control and protection.

Gonzalez was also the initiator of Doku's goal, while also acting as a shield from afar to help the defense stand firm under pressure.

Depth and consistency in the Premier League race

The rise of these four names turned once-doubted links into tactical fulcrums. Man City can rotate without compromising quality, maintaining intensity and control throughout the journey.

That is the foundation of the “turtle” philosophy that Guardiola pursues: persistence, stability and acceleration at the right time, instead of temporary explosions.

Main highlights

• Jeremy Doku: scored 1 goal against Liverpool, constantly stirring up the defense and creating space for his teammates.
• Matheus Nunes: assisted Erling Haaland to open the scoring, leading the match in defensive interventions.
• Nico O'Reilly: neutralized Mohamed Salah with composure and determination.
• Nico Gonzalez: anchor for Rodri, initiated the situation leading to Doku's goal, shielded the defense.

Man City are accelerating at the right time when the "supporting actors" are all sublimated. With this foundation, they have enough tools to cope with the dense schedule and direct opponents ahead.