Guardiola has not been sleeping very well, as he has said.
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Pep Guardiola, the mastermind behind Manchester City’s unprecedented success, is facing an unfamiliar situation: a run of poor form that has raised questions about the team’s consistency and his leadership.
With nine defeats in their last twelve matches—a record slump under Guardiola—doubts have started to creep in. Could this signal trouble for one of football’s most decorated managers?
Manchester City’s Recent Struggles
For the first time in his managerial career, Guardiola has endured four consecutive losses, including a shock 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa. City’s form contrasts sharply with their treble-winning season just a few months ago.
Defensive vulnerabilities have become a recurring issue, with the team conceding the joint-most goals from back-post crosses in the Premier League this season.
Offensively, their talisman Erling Haaland has struggled to find his rhythm, scoring only once in his last six games. The usually prolific striker candidly admitted, “I haven’t been good enough this season.”
These struggles have coincided with opponents adapting more effectively to City’s high-pressing, possession-heavy style, exploiting weaknesses Guardiola’s teams rarely show.
What’s Gone Wrong?
- Defensive Weaknesses
City’s once-impenetrable defense now looks shaky, particularly against aerial threats and set-pieces. This has exposed cracks that teams like Aston Villa and others have been quick to exploit.
- Attacking Inefficiencies
Despite boasting a squad brimming with attacking talent, the final third has been underwhelming. Haaland’s dry spell highlights a broader issue with the team’s creativity and
- Fatigue and Squad Rotation
After last season’s grueling campaign, several key players look jaded. Injuries, particularly to Kevin De Bruyne, have exacerbated the issue, limiting Guardiola’s options and forcing him to field makeshift lineups.
- Tactical Stagnation
Guardiola’s teams have always thrived on tactical innovation, but this season, opponents seem better prepared. High-profile rivals have effectively countered City’s press and exploited spaces in transition.
Is Guardiola’s Job Under Threat?
Despite these struggles, it’s important to put Guardiola’s position in perspective.
His achievements at Manchester City are unparalleled: five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four EFL Cups, and, most notably, a Champions League triumph last season.
This unprecedented success has earned him significant trust from the club’s hierarchy. Guardiola himself recently acknowledged this: “I have this margin,” he said, referring to the goodwill his past accomplishments have garnered.
Moreover, Guardiola has always been a manager who thrives under pressure. Reports suggest he is planning a major squad overhaul, potentially selling several underperforming regulars to usher in a “new era” for Manchester City.
The Bigger Picture
Football is a results-driven industry, and even the best managers face scrutiny during tough times. While City’s form has been alarming, there is little to suggest Guardiola’s job is in immediate danger.
Both the club’s ownership and fanbase are likely to give him the time and resources needed to address the current challenges.
However, prolonged struggles could invite more serious questions. Failure to qualify for the Champions League or a trophyless season might push the narrative further toward change. But given Guardiola’s track record, such scenarios remain highly unlikely.
Conclusion
Is Pep Guardiola’s job under threat? Not in the immediate future.
While Manchester City’s struggles this season are concerning, they are a bump in the road rather than the start of a decline.
Guardiola’s ability to adapt, his proven success, and the unwavering support of the club’s hierarchy make him the best candidate to lead City out of this slump.
The true test will be whether he can turn this crisis into another opportunity to redefine success in football.