On the Ball: If anyone in the box can score for City, Guardiola won't need a No. 9
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Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva (in blue), pictured in the game against Newcastle, is the top marksman for Man City this season.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Richard Jolly
Manchester City lost Sergio Aguero in the summer. They failed to sign Harry Kane. Now Ferran Torres, the youngster bought as a winger but who has become Spain's first-choice No. 9, is set to join Barcelona in January. Pep Guardiola's response felt both illogical and typical. "I am not getting to bring in a striker in January," he said.
Not having a striker runs contrary to most footballing logic. For Guardiola, the high priest of the false nine, it has served him well.