Pep Guardiola has placed the blame squarely on his shoulders following Manchester City’s late collapse to Manchester United in the derby.
Despite Josko Gvardiol’s opener, a Bruno Fernandes penalty and a last-minute winner from Amad condemned City to their eighth defeat in 11 games, leaving their Premier League title hopes hanging by a thread.
DETAILS:
Manchester City’s woes deepened after Sunday’s dramatic 2-1 loss at the Etihad Stadium. Josko Gvardiol’s first-half header had seemingly put the hosts on course for a vital win, but two late goals flipped the script.
Matheus Nunes conceded a penalty with a clumsy foul on Amad, allowing Bruno Fernandes to equalize. Moments later, Amad sealed victory for United, sending City fans into despair and leaving Guardiola to shoulder the blame.
This defeat continues a troubling run of form for City, who sit fifth in the Premier League, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool. With a game in hand, their title defense already appears to be in serious jeopardy.
QUOTES:
Pep Guardiola, Post-Match:
“Not much to say. No defence, they were incredibly persistent. We have not lost eight games in two seasons. We can’t defend that. It’s not about this or that player.”
“We gave away goals, our fault. We don’t play with composure. The results are not good, the game was not exceptional.”
“I’m not good enough. I am the boss, the manager, I have to find solutions, and so far I haven’t. That’s the reality.”
“The way I learn is to keep going. The result will help us to take our best, but right now we don’t have it.”
Bernardo Silva, on the Team’s Performance:
“At this level, a game or two is unlucky. Ten games—it’s not about that.”
“Minute 87 in a derby, winning 1-0, and our corner ends in a penalty for them. If we make these stupid decisions with three or four minutes to go, you deserve to pay for that.”
“We played like under-15s in the last minute.”
CITATIONS:
Guardiola’s comments were sourced from his post-match interviews with Sky Sports, with additional quotes from City midfielder Bernardo Silva.
KEEP IN MIND:
Guardiola has consistently shielded his players from criticism, choosing instead to take responsibility for the team’s struggles.
Matheus Nunes’ role in conceding the penalty has sparked debate, though Guardiola insisted it’s not about individual mistakes but collective improvement.
City’s loss highlights deeper issues with their current form, as they’ve dropped points in crucial games, leaving their title.
