PORTO, Portugal (Reuters) - It is a term that once puzzled pundits and upset traditionalists but Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says the 'false nine' brings out the best in his team, and it would be no surprise to see it used in Saturday's Champions League final against Chelsea.
The unconventional tactic involves playing without a traditional centre-forward, or 'number nine', leading the attacking line but with either an advanced midfielder or a withdrawn striker in a deeper position.
