After completing the double in
his first season in charge at Manchester City, the 2014/15 season ended
trophy-less for Manuel Pellegrini, with Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea romping away
with the Premier League title. Lacklustre performances and inconsistent form
left fans questioning the tactical aptitude of the Chilean and the commitment
and desire of the players.
A multitude of factors all played their part: an ageing
squad, injuries, a below-par defence and conflicting tactics didn’t help their
cause. An inability to a) deliver a decent corner into the box and b) score
from one didn’t go unnoticed. Unexpected points dropped against inferior
opposition meant no gold badges on the shirt this season. With rumours circling
that Pep has already agreed to take over at the Etihad next season, surely
Pellegrini will be looking to end his tenure on a high?
Most people know to expect the unexpected as far as City are
concerned, but here are five things the sky blue contingency can look forward
to this season.
1)
Magic
in Midfield
City already had a plethora of talent in the middle of the
park, but all eyes will be on £49 million record signing Raheem Sterling. He
has already impressed during pre season, forging a promising understanding with
Spanish magician David Silva, scoring and assisting. Question marks hover over
how much £8 million man Fabian Delph will feature after his indecisive move
from Aston Villa, but he is a useful addition, adding to the English quota and
providing more strength in depth.
