Man City Form Sparks Questions Over Guardiola and Future
Pep Guardiola walked across the Amex pitch with the weight of a manager searching for answers. No handshake for Fabian Hurzeler, no words for his players, just a muted applause to the away end. Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton was not merely a loss; it was the latest sign that the aura which defined Guardiola’s side is slipping.
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After three Premier League games, City have three points. It is Guardiola’s lowest tally at this stage of any league season and the first time they have trailed Manchester United after three or more games since September 2021. That statistic alone speaks volumes, not just about City’s dominance in recent years but about the shift that is now taking place.
Signs of a Changing Landscape
City controlled the first hour against Brighton, taking a deserved lead through Erling Haaland. Yet, when Brighton made four changes on 60 minutes, the game transformed. James Milner’s influence was described by Hurzeler as spreading like a “virus” as Brighton seized momentum, scoring twice to turn the contest.
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Guardiola’s response was telling. Substitutions felt like damage limitation rather than inspiration, and City’s defence, featuring Ruben Dias, John Stones and Rodri, wilted. “Kid mistakes,” Rodri said. Guardiola admitted his side “forgot to continue playing” after conceding from the penalty spot.
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A Team Without Fear Factor
Once, opponents would shrink after falling behind to City. Now they attack with belief. Last season’s mid-season collapse has not been forgotten by the league’s middle tier. For years, City’s mystique made their lead insurmountable; now that aura has been punctured.
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Brighton’s comeback was not a shock but a reflection of City’s vulnerability. Their once imperious system has given way to uncertainty.
Transition Under Guardiola
City are not in crisis, but this is not a team capable of the relentless form that defined their title-winning seasons. Guardiola is grappling with questions across the pitch. Positions at right-back, centre-back, midfield and the wings remain unsettled, and cohesion is lacking.
Oscar Bobb and Tijjani Reijnders offer glimpses of promise, Khusanov has shown pace and potential, but chemistry is elusive. The defence often looks misaligned, the midfield unbalanced, and the front three disconnected.
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Guardiola has built dynasties by reinventing his teams. Now, with City humanised and opponents emboldened, the challenge is to rebuild belief as much as structure.