Pep Guardiola Pinpoints Problems Across the Pitch as Manchester City Slump to Fifth Straight Defeat
Pep Guardiola has highlighted issues throughout his squad following Manchester City’s unprecedented run of five consecutive defeats, capped by a crushing 4-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad. This poor form marks the first time in Guardiola’s illustrious career that his team has suffered such a streak, leaving City without points from their last three Premier League matches and out of the Carabao Cup.
Despite a strong start against Spurs, City faltered after conceding the first goal and never recovered. Their struggles have been exacerbated by a lack of goals and a defense that appears increasingly fragile.
Haaland’s Drought and Lack of Support
Erling Haaland, who began the season in scintillating form with ten goals in his first five league games, has managed just two in his last seven outings. While Haaland’s contributions are still critical—his two recent goals account for nearly a quarter of City’s total during this period—the lack of support from other players is glaring.
In the same stretch, only Jeremy Doku has scored from City’s forward line. Midfielders Josko Gvardiol, John Stones, and Mateo Kovacic have added goals, but Phil Foden and Savinho missed chances against Spurs, and key players like Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva remain goalless this season.
Guardiola Calls for Better Finishing
Guardiola believes that converting opportunities is essential not only to boost their attack but also to stabilize their defense, as scoring goals builds confidence and helps control games. Reflecting on the match, Guardiola said:
“We had the chances—clear, clear ones at 0-0, 0-1, and 0-2—but we didn’t take them. At the Etihad, when we score goals, the momentum is there. But at the moment, we are not solid enough.”
He acknowledged that City’s usual defensive solidity has also deserted them:
“That is the truth. Normally we are solid, not conceding goals, but now, on both sides, we are not good enough.”
The Road Ahead
Guardiola’s side must address their shortcomings quickly if they are to reclaim their dominance. With their attack misfiring and defensive lapses mounting, City are in unfamiliar territory, and Guardiola faces one of the toughest challenges of his managerial career.
