Pep Guardiola’s City Struggles: Can They Recover in Time?

Pep Guardiola’s body language in Manchester City’s recent 2-1 loss to Brighton signaled deep concern, suggesting he may be facing his most challenging period since his early days at the club. Already anxious on the touchline, Guardiola’s frustration grew as City’s defense struggled with Matt O’Riley’s late goal sealing their fourth straight loss — a first for City since 2006 and an unprecedented run in Guardiola’s managerial career.

City’s current issues stem from both offensive and defensive struggles. Despite more shots per game (up to 19.6 from 18.5 last season), their goal average has dropped from 2.53 to 2 per game. Erling Haaland’s burden has grown as the team’s chance conversion has slipped from 38% to 29.8%. Defensively, City is conceding more goals with their average rising from 0.92 to 1.17 per game.

The right flank where veteran Kyle Walker has shown signs of age is proving especially vulnerable. The absence of Rodri, a crucial defensive midfielder who suffered a knee injury has compounded these struggles. With Rodri, City’s win percentage is 73.6%, dropping to 58.3% without him. His loss has exposed a defensive frailty that even City’s financial resources struggle to offset.

Adding to the uncertainty, Guardiola’s contract expires next June and his longtime colleague, director of football Txiki Begiristain will leave at season’s end. This, combined with missing key players like Kevin De Bruyne has heightened scrutiny.

Yet, Pep Guardiola’s history of overcoming setbacks suggests it’s unwise to count City out. Although Liverpool and Arsenal may sense opportunity, City has rebounded from similar positions before and remains determined to reassert their dominance.