Manchester City’s 2024-25 season has unraveled in shocking fashion. With nine defeats in their last 12 matches across all competitions, Pep Guardiola’s side is enduring one of the worst runs in the club’s recent history. A team that once seemed invincible now finds itself struggling for consistency, cohesion, and results.
As City prepares to head into the new year, Guardiola faces an uphill battle to salvage their season. From tactical misfires to key player absences, here’s a deep dive into what’s gone wrong for the reigning Premier League champions.
A Run of Defeats Unlike Any Other
City’s current form is historically poor.
- Nine Defeats in 12 Matches: This is a stark contrast to their usual dominance. Previously, it took 112 matches for City to accumulate nine losses across all competitions.
- Winless Away Streak: City has failed to win in five consecutive Premier League away games (D1, L4), a first under Guardiola.
The last time a “big six” club experienced a similar run was Chelsea in 2023. For Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool, such struggles date back decades, underscoring the rarity of City’s collapse.
Key Issues Behind the Crisis
Aging Core
Several key players in City’s squad appear to be past their peak:
- Kyle Walker (34): Dropped to the bench against Aston Villa due to declining form.
- Kevin De Bruyne (33): Struggling with injuries and unable to maintain his usual impact.
- Bernardo Silva (30): Overplayed and showing signs of fatigue.
- John Stones (30): Plagued by recurring injuries.
City has fielded 11 players aged 29 or older this season, more than any other Premier League team. The reliance on an aging core is beginning to take its toll.
Erling Haaland’s Struggles
Haaland’s goal-scoring form has nosedived since City’s slump began:
- Before October 27: 14 goals in 13 games, averaging a goal every 81 minutes.
- Since the Slump: 4 goals in 11 games, with a minutes-per-goal ratio dropping to 248.
Haaland’s shot conversion rate has fallen from 23.3% to 9.8%, and his touches in the opposition box have decreased. Guardiola’s tactical system seems to be isolating the Norwegian striker, limiting his effectiveness.
Rodri’s Absence
Rodri’s absence has been the single most significant factor in City’s struggles:
- Without Rodri: 19 Premier League matches, 9 losses.
- With Rodri: 36 matches, no losses.
Rodri’s ability to anchor the midfield and dictate play has been sorely missed. His absence has exposed City’s vulnerabilities, both defensively and in their build-up play.
Ruben Dias’ Injuries
Dias’ importance to City’s defense cannot be overstated:
- With Dias: City concedes 1.2 goals per game.
- Without Dias: Concedes 2.5 goals per game.
The Portuguese center-back’s injuries have left City’s backline in disarray, further compounding their defensive woes.
Statistical Context
- Worst Losing Streak: Guardiola lost four consecutive matches for the first time in his managerial career earlier this season.
- Most Losses Under Guardiola: City has already lost nine games this season. Only in 2019-20 (12) and 2016-17 (10) have they lost more under Guardiola.
What’s Next for City?
Slim Title Hopes
City is 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool, sitting in seventh place. The Opta supercomputer gives them just a 0.6% chance of retaining the title. While City has recovered from mid-season slumps before, this year’s comeback seems far-fetched.
Champions League Challenge
City faces a critical clash with Paris Saint-Germain in January. Currently sitting 22nd in the Champions League standings, they must secure points to advance to the knockout stages.
FA Cup and Transfers
City’s FA Cup match against Salford presents an opportunity to regain confidence. Additionally, the January transfer window offers a chance to address squad weaknesses.
Guardiola’s Focus
Guardiola remains determined to steady the ship. Upcoming fixtures against Everton, Leicester City, and West Ham offer a chance to rebuild momentum. However, uncertainty looms over City’s long-term future, with over 100 Premier League charges against the club set for resolution in the new year.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s current crisis is a perfect storm of injuries, aging players, and tactical inefficiencies. Pep Guardiola faces one of the toughest challenges of his career as he seeks to turn things around. While a Christmas miracle may be needed to salvage their title hopes, City’s resilience and Guardiola’s tactical acumen mean they cannot be written off just yet.
FAQs
1. What is Manchester City’s recent form?
City has lost nine of their last 12 matches across all competitions, with just one win in that span.
2. Why is Erling Haaland struggling?
Haaland’s form has dipped due to a lack of service and tactical adjustments that have left him isolated.
3. How important is Rodri to City?
City has lost nine of 19 Premier League matches without Rodri since last season, highlighting his pivotal role.
4. Can City still win the Premier League?
City is 12 points behind Liverpool and has just a 0.6% chance of retaining the title, according to Opta.
5. What are City’s next fixtures?
City faces Everton, Leicester City, and West Ham in their next Premier League games, followed by a Champions League clash with PSG.
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