Manchester City are back on the training ground after their tough 3-1 defeat to rivals Manchester United. The loss has highlighted a worrying trend for City, with Pep Guardiola’s team managing just one win in their last 11 matches across all competitions.
Currently sitting far from their usual dominant form, City are out of the Carabao Cup and have struggled in the Champions League, where they now face a potential February playoff to reach the last 16.
Guardiola, known for his tactical genius, is working tirelessly to figure out what’s gone wrong and how to fix it before the team faces Aston Villa this weekend.
RECALL:
The Manchester derby loss wasn’t just another bad day at the office—it was a continuation of a worrying slide. Injuries have disrupted the squad’s rhythm, and City’s collective performances have lacked the edge that made them one of the best teams in Europe.
Despite their struggles, Guardiola gave the squad two rare days off after the derby, allowing players to recharge ahead of what could be a turning point in their season.
QUOTES:
Speaking to Sky Germany, goalkeeper Stefan Ortega shared insight into Guardiola’s mindset during this challenging period:
“Pep doesn’t like losing, but he’s working hard to find a solution. Nobody can tell me that the coach who dominated England is suddenly not good enough anymore.”
Ortega added:
“He’s looking for answers, maybe a little obsessively. But his drive to be perfect is still there, and he’s supporting us as always. With his charisma and leadership, he’s positive and focused on turning things around.”
He also highlighted the importance of injured players returning soon:
“If we can get everyone back fit, I believe we’ll be back to winning games quickly.”
Ortega even suggested that overcoming this difficult period might be even more rewarding than lifting another trophy:
“If we come through this as a team, it might feel like a bigger achievement than winning another title.”
CITATIONS:
The quotes from Stefan Ortega were shared in his recent interview with Sky Germany. His words reflect the belief within the squad that Pep Guardiola’s tactical brilliance and leadership can guide them out of this slump.
Reports from within the club also suggest that Guardiola has intensified his analysis of the team’s recent struggles, focusing on defensive issues and lack of creativity in attack.
KEEP IN MIND:
City’s trip to Aston Villa on Saturday could set the tone for the rest of their season. With key players still out, Guardiola’s tactical adjustments and the team’s resilience will be under the spotlight.
For Manchester City fans, there’s hope that this tough period will only make the team stronger. But for now, it’s all about rediscovering their winning ways—and fast.
