Will Manchester City Win Another Title Amid their Unimpressive Season?
Manchester City has been having an unimpressive form lately. Though the team has been synonymous with fighting to the end, drawing against Crystal Palace at Etihad Stadium sends a message that something needs to be done if the team wants to chase the EPL title.
It is alarming to see Pep Guardiola’s team struggle to win when it has evidently been one of the unstoppable teams in the previous seasons. Drawing against Tottenham, Liverpool, and Chelsea could be expected, but against Place is a woo City are struggling to come to terms with.
Palace had an edge to score the first goal, but how the team managed to get a penalty is still something that City has to contend with. Guardiola’s side lost it at the defense when Palace gained possession in the last few minutes of the game. City, in turn, became frustrated and made the mistake that resulted in a penalty.
Could it be Tactical or an Injury Thing?
Football is as much physical as it is mental. Fatigue could catch up, and the absence of key players can lead to complacency. Manchester City might be experiencing a tough season because of the absence of key players due to injuries. Missing Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones could explain this flop. Besides, Erling Halaand has been grappling with a foot problem, which could disadvantage the treble winners in giving the expected incredible results.
Even so, it could be tactical; you never know what managers and teams are cooking lest you are in their shoes. Regardless, failing to control a game with counter-attacks and a strong defense is costly and could be why you struggle to chase the lead. City has had a poor performance, with only one win in the last six matches in the premier league. Manchester City is fourth in the EPL, a position uncomfortable for the Citizens.
A Ray of Hope
Guardiola and his team have much to prove to both stakeholders and fans. Kevin De Bruyne is set to be part of the squad as he was seen training in preparation for upcoming matches, including The Club World Cup. Though he was part of the travel team to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, De Bruyne was not listed among the squad or substitutes against Urawa Red Diamonds.
Speaking of the Club World Cup, the tournament is the reset Manchester needed. The Citizens edged their Japanese opponents in a 3-0 victory. Urawa Red Diamonds displayed great defensive play, which was evident until Marius Hoibraten’s own goal changed and affected the team’s confidence.
This result could be the revival Man City needs to be back in form for significant trophies like the EPL title. According to Rodri, his teammates are determined and will work hard for the turnaround they need.
The win against Urawa Red Diamonds means the Citizens proceed to the Club World Cup final, which will be against Fluminense. Both Halaand and De Bruyne will miss this final. For bettors who believe either team has a chance, login to GGBet and make your predictions.
What’s the Way Forward?
Rodri is optimistic that Manchester City will do its best to add a fifth title to its portfolio. The midfielder notes that the changing room has been sad, but earning a spot in the finals brings a new feeling. City hopes to break off dropping points if they win the Club World Cup final.
Guardiola is a happy manager to lead his team into the finals despite having a dismal performance in the domestic league. He considers the win against Urawa a milestone and challenges his team to brave up for a once-in-a-lifetime victory by winning the Club World Cup title.
The tactician notes that this will be an achievement since the team is in the finals for the first time. For City to be here, you must have done many things. Since it is the last step toward victory, winning will give the club lifetime honors. Fluminense is a worthy opponent with quality performance and experience. Guardiola is ready to lead his team to the honorable title and is confident about winning as he boasts two similar titles with Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
What Will Give City an Edge?
The challenge to take on Fluminense isn’t easy as the team is equally preparing for the same. Phil Foden is confident of his team’s ability to sail through and outsmart the opponents. According to him, City has an experienced squad with good team bonding, so the team remains successful in most competitions.
For Foden, winning is not a one-man show but a collective responsibility. This calls for unity and teamwork in delivering your best while working for each other. You cannot underestimate Manchester City’s preparation for this tournament, as they hope to be the 11th European club to win this edition. Citizens now boast four coveted titles; the fifth one will be honorable and history made.