Why Manchester City shouldn’t target Idrissa Gueye to replace Fernandinho
Sky Sports has revealed that Everton star Idrissa Gueye wants to leave Goodison Park amid reports of a move to PSG. However, while the Toffees have rejected any move or even the player’s transfer request, it looks like their troubles might not be over with Arsenal and Manchester City joining the race for the 29-year-old, according to the Guardian.
The reigning Premier League Champions are looking for a replacement for the ageing Fernandinho, who despite his solid performances over the last few years, needs competition for his position in Pep Guardiola’s side. However, that is easier said than done and while the Brazilian doesn’t have too much time left before he eventually hangs up his boots, adding Idrissa Gueye will not help with the transition in any way.
If nothing else, the Cityzens need a proven midfielder who can operate as a subtle destroyer and creator of chances, While Kevin De Bruyne focuses on bamboozling the opposition with his passes and David Silva thread passes together, Fernandinho is there to stop counter-attacks and win second balls.
The 33-year-old intercepts, tackles and even rough-houses with opponents at times but everything is done so subtly, that one barely even notices its happening. You blink and you miss watching the Brazilian steal the ball from a winger, who’s tricked his way through half the field. Idrissa Gueye, on the other hand, is an out-and-out destroyer and while he would effectively replace Fernandinho, he won’t suit Guardiola’s aesthetic and style of play.
The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager adopts a very attacking style of play which is wonderful to watch with the right players. That type of style depends on a player like Sergio Busquets, Fernandinho, Xabi Alonso, Philipp Lahm and even Javi Martinez, all of whom flourished and were at their best under him.
For that reason, Idrissa Gueye isn’t the right man for the job at Etihad Stadium and with Manchester City looking to build continued success, they need someone who will reproduce what Fernandinho has been doing for many years to come.
Maybe someone like Ruben Neves or Rodri or even Tanguy NDombele could be an option for the blue side of Manchester but Idrissa Gueye is most definitely not the guy for them.
