Manchester City FC manager Pep Guardiola has explained why Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush has not been a regular starter this season, while praising the striker’s effectiveness in front of goal despite limited playing time.
Marmoush once again made an impact from the bench during Manchester City’s victory over Brentford FC, scoring the team’s third goal deep into stoppage time after coming on in the second half.
The Egyptian international entered the match in the 60th minute, shortly before goals from Erling Haaland and Jérémy Doku helped City establish control. Marmoush then completed the scoring late in the game, continuing a campaign in which he has frequently delivered despite restricted minutes.
Speaking after the match in comments published on Manchester City’s official website, Guardiola praised the influence of his substitutes and acknowledged the challenge facing players who are not consistently selected in the starting line-up.
“The impact of the substitutes against Brentford was excellent. I know it’s not easy for players who don’t play much, but I’m sure they will play in the upcoming matches.”
Guardiola Points to Tactical Competition
The Manchester City manager said squad rotation would be necessary as the club approaches the closing weeks of the season, with important fixtures still ahead in both domestic league and cup competitions.
“I will rotate the squad, otherwise we will not reach the final or the Bournemouth match in the way we want,” Guardiola said.
The Spanish coach also suggested that Marmoush’s lack of regular starts is linked to City’s tactical structure, particularly the importance of Haaland in the central attacking role.
“It’s not easy, especially for Omar Marmoush, because we usually play with one striker, and Erling Haaland is very important to us.”
Despite the competition for places, Guardiola was quick to underline the Egypt forward’s efficiency whenever he is called upon.
“But Marmoush’s goal-scoring rate relative to the minutes he plays is high, and that’s very good.”
Strong Numbers Despite Limited Opportunities
Although Marmoush has mostly appeared as a substitute since joining City, his attacking output has remained notable.
The 26-year-old has now been directly involved in 10 goals this season, scoring seven times and providing three assists across 33 appearances in all competitions.
However, the majority of those appearances have come from the bench, with the Egyptian playing only 1,255 minutes in total. That record means he has averaged a goal contribution every 125 minutes, an impressive return considering his limited opportunities in the starting team.
His performances have increasingly strengthened calls from supporters for a larger role in Guardiola’s side, especially during a demanding end to the campaign.
Busy Finish to the Season
Manchester City still have three remaining Premier League fixtures as they continue their push to finish the season strongly.
The club are also preparing for the FA Cup Final against Chelsea FC, meaning Guardiola is expected to continue rotating his squad during the final two weeks of the season.
That schedule could provide Marmoush with further opportunities to increase his involvement and strengthen his case for a more prominent role in the team.
For now, Guardiola appears satisfied with the Egyptian’s contribution, even if his appearances continue to come largely from the substitutes’ bench.
