Pep Guardiola was spotted returning to his Manchester city centre apartment looking visibly downbeat after Manchester City’s shocking 2-1 loss to Manchester United in the derby on Sunday.
Despite the crushing defeat, the Man City boss took a moment to engage with a fan outside his residence at the Deansgate City Suites, signing a shirt before retreating inside.
The Collapse at the Etihad:
Manchester United stunned their city rivals with a late comeback, netting two goals in rapid succession through Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo. Josko Gvardiol had given City the lead, but their inability to capitalize on that advantage handed United an unlikely victory.
The loss marked City’s eighth defeat in their last 11 matches, a stunning dip in form for a team that has dominated the Premier League for the last five years. They now sit fifth in the table, nine points behind leaders Liverpool, who still have a game in hand.
Guardiola’s Honest Assessment:
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Guardiola was brutally candid about his team’s struggles, admitting that he has been unable to reverse their slump.
“It is what it is. What can I say? We didn’t play our best. We’re struggling. It’s not about blaming one player or another. It’s the season—it’s a tough season.”
Guardiola also expressed his frustration with his inability to lift the team’s spirits and restore their composure.
“Football is about emotion. We’re anxious with and without the ball, and the worst thing is to lose composure. That’s what gives you momentum and confidence. I’ve said many times: relax. But I haven’t been good enough to let the players feel that.”
Guardiola Shoulders the Blame:
In an unusual move, Guardiola accepted full responsibility for the team’s poor form.
“I’m the boss, I’m the manager, and I’m not good enough. It’s as simple as that. I have to find a solution, and so far, I haven’t found it.”
He also reflected on the team’s defensive woes, which have been a recurring issue.
“We can’t keep making the same mistakes. Against Feyenoord, we were 3-0 up and still drew. You think it’s because of the injuries? No. It’s deeper than that. Something is wrong, and it’s my job to fix it.”
Life at the Deansgate City Suites:
Guardiola’s apartment in the luxurious 16-storey Deansgate City Suites provides him with a retreat from the pressures of football. Two floors of the building are reserved for private apartments, one of which Guardiola calls home. However, given City’s recent slump, relaxation may be difficult to come by.
City’s Alarming Form:
This defeat is the latest blow in what has been a disastrous stretch for the reigning champions. Their struggles have not been confined to domestic competition; their 3-3 draw against Feyenoord in the Champions League—after leading 3-0—exposed similar defensive vulnerabilities.
With Liverpool extending their lead at the top, City’s hopes of a fifth consecutive Premier League title are fading fast. Guardiola, known for his meticulous tactical approach, now faces one of the most challenging periods of his managerial career.
What’s Next for City?
City will look to regroup and stop the rot when they face Aston Villa next weekend. However, Guardiola’s admission that he hasn’t found a solution for the team’s struggles leaves fans with more questions than answers.
As the pressure mounts, one thing is clear: Manchester City’s season is hanging by a thread, and the responsibility for saving it lies squarely on Guardiola’s shoulders.
