The Athletic FC Podcast Can Man City challenge Arsenal for the title?
Nov 10, 2025
Adam Crafton, an experienced football journalist for The Athletic, and Jack Pitt-Brooke, a keen football writer, dive into Manchester City's impressive 3-0 win over Liverpool. They discuss Pep Guardiola's 1,000th game and the tactical evolution of City, especially Jeremy Doku's standout performance. The duo evaluates whether City can sustain a title challenge, explores midfield options in Rodri's absence, and debates City’s psychological edge over rivals, while pondering Liverpool's declining title hopes and the need for consistent performances.
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City's Tactical Evolution
- Manchester City have evolved from possession-dominant play to a more direct, pragmatic style under Pep Guardiola.
- They now accept lower possession and use Haaland, a conventional goalkeeper and Doku to win physically and tactically.
Pep Willing To Change
- Pep adapts his tactics to suit personnel like Haaland rather than rigidly enforcing past principles.
- Guardiola appears willing to change his style after years of possession-focused football to remain competitive.
Doku's Breakout Role
- Jeremy Doku has transformed into a decisive, direct winger this season for City.
- His willingness to take risks and attack 1v1 adds unpredictability and stretches opponents.