Pep’s red rage, but Kyle brings a smile
AFTER VAR had confirmed Rodri had momentarily lost the plot, the Spaniard was applauded all the way to the tunnel.
But not by Pep Guardiola. Not just because the dismissal of Manchester City’s most influential midfielder meant a cakewalk became a struggle – but because Guardiola’s resources are already stretched by injury.
Among the games Rodri will now miss is the trip to the Emirates in a fortnight’s time.
City are without the long-term services of Kevin De Bruyne.
No wonder Rodri’s every step was accompanied not only by the sympathy of the crowd – but also by Pep’s withering glare.
It was the softest of red cards and one Rodri was deeply regretting, even before Morgan Gibbs-white had his theatrical, pathetic fall.
Rodri, after briefly laying both hands on his neck, had time to try and keep Gibbs-white upright such was the delayed reaction of the Nottingham Forest midfielder.
Job done for Gibbs-white, you might say, and there was no way the VAR was going to suggest Anthony
Taylor reverse his decision. But, for a tough midfielder such as Gibbswhite, it was still embarrassing.
But at least it made for a competitive match after a first half that was a non-contest from the moment Phil Foden put the finishing touch to a 46-pass move. Yep, FORTY-SIX passes. And the sweetest was the 46th – a cushioned, volleyed pull-back that demanded Phil Foden’s emphatic first-time finish.
And the craftsman behind this wonderful assist, manufactured on the run? Kyle Walker.
On the international scoresheet this month, there is seemingly no end to Walker’s widening repertoire. Seriously, Walker is an elite player who is becoming more accomplished in his 34th year. It is one of the storylines of City’s season so far. He was not foot-perfect in this win, completed by Erling Haaland’s eighth Premier League goal. But that single, early moment of class was emblematic of Walker’s contribution to City’s cause. The pace that got him into the position for the assist was as familiar as City monopolising possession, but his execution was De Bruyne-style. And Foden’s sweet left foot did Walker’s ingenuity full justice. In the comfortable seats, England boss Gareth Southgate just about managed to suppress a smile. A couple of times, he has had to talk Walker out of international retirement, the raft of high-quality English right-backs prompting the City man to consider his club career.
And that was a club career that looked set for a twist in the summer, Walker – understandably – still sore at being left out of the starting XI for the Champions League Final.
Bayern Munich beckoned – but Walker decided to stay at a place he has called home for six years and he is now Pep’s lieutenant on the field.
In the absence of De Bruyne, Walker’s captaincy could soon become official – and it would be as well-deserved as well-earned.
But there was still enough anxiety around the place for Guardiola to give his back – freshly operated on – a serious workout.
He should not have worried. With new-found calmness and composure, the mature Walker with the armband had it covered.
And, soon after the final whistle, he was in front of the cameras, speaking as well as he had played.
Kyle Walker – an unlikely leader, on and off the field.
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