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At times, the former Everton center-back is allowed to perform unique duties.
Manchester City defender John Stones has opened up on his new midfield role under Pep Guardiola.
Stones, who was named the man of the match in their 3-0 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League’s first leg clash at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday – was allowed to venture more and act as a number six than his usual center-half role.
"[It's been a] big learning curve for me in positioning, being unselfish, and knowing when to create space for others," Stones said.
"It doesn't come naturally, but I'm learning all the time and giving to the team first and foremost.
"It's about getting on the ball, expressing myself, and trying to read situations and you know whatever the manager is asking of me. We work on that in training all the time, so when it comes to match days, we know our roles."
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11:49 - 12.04.2023
Manchester City vs Bayern Munich: 5 reasons why Guardiola is likely to win the Champions League
Guardiola is still on course to break his Champions League jinx with Manchester City after a commanding performance against Bayern Munich.
The England international who is competing for starting berths with Ruben Dias and Manuel Akanji applauded his relationship with Guardiola, which has allowed him to mold his performance.
"I think [he and Guardiola] have been together for seven years now, I know what is expected of me. He wouldn't put me there if he didn't think I would be comfortable or do a role," he added.
"And then it is about us trying to execute that and believing in our own abilities, and trying to do everything I can for the team.'
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06:24 - 12.04.2023
Guardiola warns players ahead of Bayern return leg
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has insisted the tie against Bayern Munich is not over and his side will have to be perfect in the return leg.
"I think I have tried not to do too much. Players have 360-degree vision, and that hasn't come to me yet; if I know I can turn, I will, but I’m trying to keep it simple. It's about creating space for others."
Stones and his teammates are still competing in three competitions, but they are second to Arsenal in the Premier League race.
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