Three unsung heroes for Manchester City this season

While Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland and Pep Guardiola will rightfully share most of the credit for Manchester City’s third consecutive Premier League title in 2022/23 – there are several other members of the squad who have contributed immensely.

Whether it be their ability to rise to the occasion in big moments, their contribution to the unparalleled culture that exists at the club or their commitment to the one percenters that oftentimes go unnoticed – the Sky Blues’ success is more than just their elite few.

With that in mind, read on as we dissect three unsung heroes of Manchester City’s campaign.

Julian Alvarez

Boasting an enormous amount of talent, in most circumstances, it would be difficult for any 23-year-old of Julian Alvarez’s calibre to take somewhat of a backseat. However, that is exactly what the Argentinian has been willing to do. While he may not receive as much ball or the plaudits that the likes of De Bruyne and Haaland receive, he does his job and does it extremely well.

The number nine has scored 14 goals this season across all competitions, and with more responsibility noticeably being placed on his shoulders as time goes on, one would expect that figure to grow with each passing season.

While Alvarez’ form with City has been solid, it was his performance at the World Cup that really turned heads. Alvarez scored four goals in Qatar, the most important of which came in the final against France. He became a national hero overnight – and you sense it has provided him with an enormous boost in confidence since.

That experience playing alongside the likes of Lionel Messi will be invaluable moving forward, and if City can manage to hold on to Alvarez long-term, the future appears even brighter for the Manchester club.

Rodri

Much is made of City’s high-powered offense, so much so it oftentimes comes at the expense of their reliable defense. One of those players in the engine room who plays an integral role to their success is defensive midfielder Rodri – whose poise, decision making and ability to make mid-game adjustments has ensured he remains one of the more underrated defenders in the league.

With 179 duels won compared to 126 duels lost and more than double the aerial battles won (70) than lost (32), City’s unbelievable and seemingly unstoppable attack begins with the play of Rodri and others at the back.

Whilst the Spaniard will rarely find himself on the back page of the newspapers, there’s no doubting his teammates are aware of the pivotal role he plays in their side’s success.

Kyle Walker

Another defensive player worth recognising is Kyle Walker, whose been a stalwart of English football since making his debut in 2009. While his statistics aren’t anything to write home about, it’s his willingness to take on the most difficult assignments that is his point of difference.

Whether it be Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe or Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Walker always puts his hand up to mark them. And when he does, invariably he does a commendable job. That commitment is what makes Walker tick, and one that is priceless for this City outfit.

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While a Premier League title is an incredible achievement, the job isn’t done yet for the three unsung heroes outlined in this article. With an FA Cup and maiden Champions League gong still up for grabs, City have the chance to join the history books by becoming just the second team in Premier League history to secure the treble (Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League).

For those who bet, City are heavily favoured in both fixtures to win, garnering odds of 8/15 in the FA Cup and 4/9 in the Champions League.