Pep Guardiola finds himself in an unusual position as Manchester City struggles to regain its footing. A 2-0 loss to Juventus on Wednesday continued their poor run of form, leaving their Champions League progression uncertain.
This result adds to a concerning trend: only one win in their last 10 games, with seven defeats in that stretch. While writing them off entirely would be premature, Guardiola faces the urgent task of halting this slump.
Alarming Statistics Behind the Decline
Manchester City's recent performances reveal deeper issues that go beyond a temporary slump. Since November, they have conceded more goals (20) across all competitions than any other team from Europe's top five leagues. Additionally, City has let in two or more goals in each of their last seven away games, a stark contrast to their previous 46 matches combined.
In the Champions League, the team has conceded nine goals in their last three matches, having previously kept clean sheets in their opening three fixtures. For the first time in Guardiola's career, his team has allowed two or more goals in three consecutive Champions League games. Furthermore, they have gone eight away games without a clean sheet, matching the longest such streak of Guardiola's career.
Despite the concerning trends, Guardiola sought to highlight positives, stating: "We played good, really, really good. They give everything, and hopefully, we can change results." However, former City defender Nedum Onuoha noted the struggles, saying, "City found it hard to break [Juventus] down and were very open at times."
Champions League Hurdles Ahead
City entered the Juventus game knowing that winning all three remaining league-phase fixtures would likely secure a top-eight finish. However, they are now five points off the mark with only two matches left. Their most realistic path involves progressing via the play-offs.
Currently ranked 22nd, they must remain in the top 24 to avoid elimination. A crucial fixture against Paris Saint-Germain on 22 January looms large, followed by a more winnable home game against Club Brugge. Guardiola remains optimistic, saying, "We have two games; we need one point maybe. We’ll turn around, appreciate more what we’ve done in the past, and move forward."
A Monumental Rebuild on the Horizon?
Guardiola's success at City has been built on consistent evolution rather than wholesale changes. However, their current struggles have prompted questions about whether fatigue or complacency among key players is playing a role. Summer signings included winger Savinho and the return of Ilkay Gündogan, but more substantial changes may be necessary.
Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin suggested that City needs a significant rebuild, stating, "Guardiola's dominance is done, for now. Manchester City won't fade into obscurity, but being the best of the best is over for the time being. A rebuild of monumental proportions is needed."
Injury Woes and Structural Concerns
Injuries have undoubtedly contributed to City's challenges. Key players like Rodri, John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji have been sidelined, with Rodri's absence particularly felt. Without the Spanish midfielder, City's midfield has lacked the control and stability that previously defined their play.
Rio Ferdinand observed, "It's not just about Rodri; they lack control in the midfield area and have been too easy to play through." Joleon Lescott echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collective nature of their struggles: "There’s never one reason for results—positive or negative. It’s about rebuilding piece by piece."
Can Guardiola Reverse the Slide?
Manchester City's slump is unlikely to last indefinitely. The team has a history of rebounding strongly after periods of poor form. In December 2018, they were 10 points behind in the Premier League but went on to win 18 of their next 19 games, ultimately claiming the title.
Guardiola remains reflective yet determined. With a proven track record of overcoming adversity, the question is not whether Guardiola has the ability to turn things around but how quickly he can restore City's dominance.
