Manchester City, a team that has dominated English and European football in recent years, appears to be struggling with inconsistency this season. After setting the standard for excellence under Pep Guardiola, their fluctuating performances have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. What has happened to City? What are the real reasons behind their dip in form?
1. Mental and Physical Fatigue
Manchester City’s historic treble-winning season last year took a toll on the players, both mentally and physically. The pressure to maintain such a high level is immense, and signs of fatigue are evident. Key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and even Erling Haaland have not displayed the same sharpness and dynamism they did in previous seasons.
2. Injuries to Key Players
Injuries have significantly disrupted City’s rhythm this season. Kevin De Bruyne suffered a long-term injury early in the campaign, depriving the team of their primary creative force. John Stones has also missed crucial games, weakening the defensive stability. The lack of continuity in the starting lineup has impacted City’s overall cohesion.
3. Midfield Weaknesses
Manchester City’s strength has always been in their midfield control, but this season, cracks have started to show. The departure of Ilkay Gündogan, who played a crucial role last season, has left a void that has yet to be properly filled. While Mateo Kovačić is a quality player, he hasn’t provided the same level of influence in big matches.
4. Opponents Adapting to Guardiola’s System
Pep Guardiola’s tactical genius is undeniable, but opposing teams have begun to find ways to neutralize City’s possession-based, high-pressing style. Many teams have opted for deep defensive blocks combined with rapid counterattacks, exposing vulnerabilities in City’s defensive transitions.
5. Lack of Hunger and Motivation
Winning the treble is a historic achievement, but sustaining the same level of hunger for success afterward is a major challenge. Some players seem to have lost the relentless drive that defined them in previous seasons. Staying at the top is harder than reaching it, and City appears to be struggling with that reality.
6. Inconsistent Performances from Key Players
Several key players who were instrumental last season have struggled to maintain their form. Jack Grealish has been underwhelming, Phil Foden has had moments of brilliance but lacks consistency, and Rodri’s suspension in key matches exposed City’s dependence on him.
7. Weaker Squad Depth Compared to Previous Seasons
One of City’s biggest advantages in past seasons was their squad depth, allowing them to rotate players without a drop in quality. However, the departures of Riyad Mahrez and João Cancelo have reduced Guardiola’s attacking and defensive options. The current squad lacks the same level of impactful substitutes, which has been noticeable in tough matches.
Can City Bounce Back?
Despite their struggles, Manchester City remains a team with immense quality and a manager capable of turning things around. Guardiola’s tactical acumen will be key in addressing the weaknesses that have surfaced. However, if City fails to rediscover their intensity and solve their tactical issues soon, they could find themselves falling behind in the title race—something few would have predicted just months ago.