Manchester City’s Title Hopes Crumble After Aston Villa Defeat

Manchester City’s struggles deepened with a 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa, leaving the defending champions in sixth place in the Premier League, nine points behind leaders Liverpool, having played two games more. Villa climbed to fifth, maintaining their top-four aspirations with a well-deserved win. Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers were the heroes for Villa with Phil Foden’s injury-time strike offering City little consolation.

Pep Guardiola’s side has now suffered nine defeats in their last 12 games across all competitions and is winless in eight away matches. Despite six changes following their Manchester derby loss, City produced another lackluster display. Villa started strongly with goalkeeper Stefan Ortega denying early efforts from Pau Torres and Duran after a costly error from Josko Gvardiol. The breakthrough came in the 16th minute when Youri Tielemans’ incisive pass set up Rogers to assist Duran’s opener.

Rogers later scored Villa’s second, a composed finish in the 65th minute, overshadowing Foden’s late goal. City’s form remains dire with confidence and leadership lacking. Erling Haaland struggled to make an impact and Jack Grealish was subdued against his former club. Only Rico Lewis and Ortega showed creditable performances. Guardiola’s side now faces a battle to secure a top-four spot and may need reinforcements in the January transfer window.

Meanwhile, Morgan Rogers shone against his former club. Having left Manchester City without making a senior appearance, the 22-year-old was instrumental for Villa, assisting and scoring in a standout performance. His development under Unai Emery highlights Villa’s recruitment success. With consistency elusive this season, Villa’s victory keeps them firmly in contention for a Champions League place, a position they can further bolster in the upcoming transfer window.