In a friendly match played tonight, Manchester City defeated the K-League All-Stars 3-1. Afterwards, Nico González was interviewed by Manchester City's official media, sharing his thoughts on the game and his tactical adjustments. He mentioned that last season he often played as a lone defensive midfielder, but now with teammates alongside him, they can execute more passing and cutting combinations. He also noted that Maresca is increasingly directing the ball to the flanks, and the team's overall style has shifted somewhat from last season.

Interviewer: You look like you just showered. First of all, congratulations on the victory, which is your first of the new season. How did it feel on the pitch? It's clear you played a high-intensity match with a lot of running and constant movement.

N. González: Yes, the game was tough. The weather was extremely hot. I've never played in such conditions before. I played in Spain for several years, and it gets hot in the summer there too, but I've never encountered heat like this.

Interviewer: Have you ever encountered this kind of environment before, or been this drenched after a match? It can get that hot in Arizona, but there's no humidity there—the climate is very dry. So what's different about this summer's pre-season training under Maresca? Due to the weather, we saw considerable squad rotation from the team, which was expected. What was the biggest takeaway for you? Feel free to discuss both your personal impressions and the team's overall performance.

N. González: Okay, first about the team: everyone can see that the overall tactical structure is very different from last season. Last year we played a few similar games, like the Champions League match against Villarreal, where Stones and I partnered as defensive midfielders, but that was rare. Personally, last season I often played as a lone defensive midfielder, but now I always have teammates around me to combine with, allowing for more passing and cutting plays.

Interviewer: Are you referring to the midfield position? Carson, do you have a question for Nico?

Carson: The most obvious thing I've observed is that Maresca wants the wingers to push further forward and play more directly than before. Especially in the past two games, the wingers frequently try to run in behind the opponent's defence to receive through balls, not just dribble past them.

N. González: I think the tactical approach is very clear. We move the ball to the flanks, and our wide players have strong individual abilities, allowing them to consistently win one-on-one duels. Ultimately, our core philosophy hasn't changed: we want to regain possession as quickly as possible and control the game. We're trying some new things and adjusting certain details, but the overall direction remains the same.

Interviewer: Indeed. Finally, let's talk about this Asian tour. How are you finding it? The fan support has been incredibly enthusiastic, with large crowds almost everywhere. What are your thoughts?

N. González: It's hard for me to imagine such passionate support from fans on the other side of the world. It feels wonderful to build such a strong connection with fans in Asia. Of course, the playing conditions are challenging, but back home in Spain, playing football in this heat presents similar difficulties. It's truly special to feel so close to the fans.

Interviewer: Alright Nico, I won't keep you any longer. You really should get a good shower and rehydrate. Thank you very much.

N. González: Thank you.

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