Guardiola hails Man City’s academy recruitment after beating Bayern in friendly

Manchester City got past Bayern Munich 2-1 in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday in Tokyo with a largely young set of players. The lineup from Pep Guardiola had some players from the club’s academy who impressed the Spanish manager.

The game is just a couple of days after an eighth-goal thriller against Yokohama. F Marinos, and Pep included 20-year-old midfielder James McAtee who spent the whole of last season with Sheffield United, ultimately helping them get promoted to the Premier League.

He played 37 games scoring nine goals and three assists in the process. Maximo Perrone and Oscar Bobb all played a part, and they left a good mark on Guardiola.

“It’s unbelievable – the guys who are in charge and the recruitment. The new generation is coming, and they told me it is really good. There are three or four players that are exceptional. We sell a lot [of players], normally with a buyback [clause]. To make £80m or £85m just from the academy is unbelievable. That shows how well the club is working. I am pretty sure that one or some of them maybe will be back here with us. [I’m] really pleased.” Pep said.

James McAtee opened the scoring in the first half, while Bayern Munich thought they had secured a draw after Mathys Tel scored in the 81st minute before Aymeric Laporte scored the winner in the 89th minute.

Manchester City will face Atletico Madrid on Sunday before next week’s Community Shield game against Arsenal, although Pep believes City will play the Community Shield not being in their top, top form. 

Guardiola believes that his team will rely on their mentality and personality even though the treble winners from last season have one week in Manchester to prepare for that final and train better.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu