Out of the Title Race Just Like That

"Oh! Kietz is warming up. He should be coming on for Rahim."

"To be fair, Rahim's recent performances have been downright terrible."

"Guardiola can't stand him anymore. They say Manchester City are considering bringing in a new winger. But if you ask me, this really isn't Rahim's problem alone."

"Rahim is a pacey winger, but putting him in a wide attacking midfielder role actually limits him. His speed advantage can't be fully brought out."

"Of course, Guardiola's teams don't place much value on speed. The faster things move, the harder they are to control. Aside from the final pass, most of Guardiola's team's play doesn't move too quickly."

"Rahim's shooting technique really is a major problem. That shot was ridiculously wide."

As Guardiola made his substitution on the touchline, he noticed Flick smiling beside him.

Guardiola was furious.

What did that mean?

I'm making a substitution, and you think you've got a chance now?

"Why are you smiling?" Guardiola asked.

Flick thought for a moment before saying, "Because this adjustment benefits us. Let's make a bet. We'll score next."

To everyone's surprise, Guardiola readily agreed. "Fine, it's a bet! And I think we'll score before you do!"

Guardiola understood what Flick meant.

After Rahim went off, none of Manchester City's players on the pitch were pure speedsters anymore.

Lima had blistering pace, and Moreira had unbeatable ball control, but neither of them was a "hunting dog" type of player.

Rahim was.

Without Rahim, Manchester City lacked a mobile focal point in their build-up.

To maintain possession and keep their dominance over the match at that point, both fullbacks would need to push forward in support.

Manchester City's fullback options were practically maxed out.

Reber on the left and Canyes on the right were both renowned attacking maniacs.

The former had