Pep Guardiola is facing an unprecedented challenge in his managerial career. Manchester City has suffered a dramatic downturn, losing nine of their last 12 matches—a tally that matches the total defeats from their previous 106 games. Just two months ago, they were unbeaten and leading the Premier League, looking poised to claim a fifth consecutive title. Now, they find themselves seventh, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points with an extra game played.
This rapid decline has left many questioning what went wrong and how Guardiola plans to reverse the situation. After consulting those closest to him, I’ve delved into the current crisis at Manchester City and explored the potential solutions for their short- and long-term recovery.
Guardiola, known for his introspection, has been grappling with self-doubt. He admits he hasn’t been sleeping well and has sought insight from trusted confidants to understand the team’s unexpected collapse. While some reasons are clear, others remain elusive.
What many may not realize is that Guardiola has always wrestled with self-doubt. He often questions his ability to resolve such challenges, relying on his close circle for reassurance. Despite the external pressures, Guardiola remains supported by a network determined to see him and City succeed amidst widespread criticism.
His anxiety has shown in subtle ways, such as his habit of scratching his head during games—a nervous tic that recently left visible marks during a Champions League draw with Feyenoord. These moments underline the stress of navigating an uncharacteristic slump.
Central to City’s struggles is the absence of Rodri, whose injury has exposed the team’s over-reliance on his role as a holding midfielder. Guardiola likened this to removing a crucial piece in Jenga, causing the entire structure to crumble. While makeshift options like John Stones and Manuel Akanji have been tested, injuries elsewhere have left the squad stretched thin.
Adding to the turmoil are uncharacteristic errors from star players, compounded by confidence issues and diminished form. Veterans like Kyle Walker and Kevin De Bruyne are struggling, while others, such as Jack Grealish and Bernardo Silva, are being overworked due to limited squad depth. These factors have disrupted City’s signature intensity, leaving players like Erling Haaland with fewer opportunities to shine.
Despite these setbacks, Guardiola has refrained from publicly criticizing his players, instead opting to give them extra rest to reset mentally. The aim is to reignite their identity by tightening defensive structures and restoring their famed high-tempo style.
Looking ahead, Guardiola is planning a significant overhaul. As he approaches the final two years of his contract—likely his last in club football—he is preparing for a transition. Reflecting on advice from Sir Alex Ferguson and Rafael Benitez during his Barcelona tenure, Guardiola has realized that this time, it’s the players who need to be replaced.
City is expected to part ways with five or six regular starters, beginning a new era under Guardiola’s guidance. While most changes will occur in the summer, the January transfer window offers opportunities, with a holding midfielder high on the agenda. Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is a key target, with a reported release clause of €60m (£50m), and he now appears ready to make the move to the Premier League after turning down Liverpool last summer.
For Guardiola and Manchester City, this crisis represents both an end and a beginning. The challenge now is to rebuild, re-establish their dominance, and usher in the next chapter of their remarkable journey.
