Pep's quick dribbler used to be a lazy kid who hated to run

Pep Guardiola is a wise man who knows a thing or two about football. The Catalan coach was keen to add something special to his squad after the unexpected departure of Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez. He found the X-factor in France - and it was in a small package!

They turned the bad reputation around completely - City making tons of money

Manchester City's purchase of Jeremy Doku from Rennes didn't stir much surprise. Financially, it was a typical City transaction: a substantial fee of $70 million, falling short of the eye-catching three-figure sums that usually draw attention. According to Transfermarkt, the 21-year-old ranks 12th among City's costliest signings. Sportingly, Doku didn't seem like the usual City signing. Known for his direct attacking prowess, agility, balance, and exceptional dribbling skills, he seemed different from the typical emphasis on build-up, passing, and possession play.

Despite this initial appearance, Doku represents a typical Guardiola player, aligning with the manager's past choices. Pep knows that just dominating possession doesn't ensure victory - it requires purpose, progression, and some spark. Guardiola, known for his possession-based style, has often integrated diverse attacking tactics into his approach. Elite dribblers have been key in his strategy to unsettle and break down opposition defences. Doku fits this mould in the Cityzens' current setup.

It's easy to see Doku as a success story today, but there was a time when even his coaches doubted he'd become such an accomplished player. Benoit Haegeman, a youth coach at Anderlecht, Doku's first club, thought poor work rates would hamperthe youngster's development.

"Jeremy didn't like to run, defend, or use the fitness room. He had a lot of self-belief, but everyone at Anderlecht thought he had a lot he needed to work on. His left foot, his strength in the air and his positioning all needed to improve. Everyone at the club thought Jeremy was good enough to play professionally for Anderlecht or another team in Belgium. But not for a top European club such as Manchester City. We are a bit surprised by him, but above all, very proud."

Statistics show that Doku averages 5.08 dribbles per 90 minutes, surpassing Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, who manages 3.73. Comparisons are drawn to notable players like Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Thiago Alcantara, Frank Ribery, Arjen Robben, and Mario Gotze, all displaying exceptional dribbling abilities under Guardiola's management.

Players adept at dribbling are crucial within the possession-oriented style, especially when possession encounters tough defensive setups. Doku is the latest player to offer exceptional dribbling skills while fitting into Pep's philosophy. Early signs indicate City's recruitment has been spot on.

PREMIER LEAGUE - Matchday 13

Saturday

15.30: (1.84) Man.City (3.90) Liverpool (4.70)

18.00: (3.60) Burnley (3.50) West Ham (2.19)

18.00: (3.60) Luton (3.35) Crystal Palace (2.24)

18.00: (2.75) Newcastle (3.15) Chelsea (2.75)

18.00: (3.25) Nott.Forest (3.50) Brighton (2.35)

18.00: (3.40) Sheffield Utd (3.50) Bournemouth (2.30)

20.30: (5.00) Brentford (3.70) Arsenal (1.84)

Sunday

17.00: (2.45) Tottenham (3.70) Aston Villa (3.00)

19.30: (2.85) Everton (3.45) Man.Utd. (2.65)

Monday

23.00: (2.55) Fulham (3.35) Wolverhampton (3.05)

***odds are subject to change