ESPN FC Man City's Miserable New Year
Jan 21, 2026
Stuart Robson, a former professional footballer and outspoken pundit, alongside Frank Leboeuf, a France international defender and TV analyst, delve into Manchester City's recent struggles after a shocking loss to Bodo/Glimt. They critique Pep Guardiola's tactical decisions and selection choices, emphasizing the team's defensive frailties. The conversation also shifts to Vinicius Junior's standout performance against Monaco and Arsenal's impressive win over Inter Milan, while discussing wider implications for PSG and the upcoming Champions League.
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Man City Decline Since New Year
- Manchester City have visibly declined since the New Year with poor attacking and defensive displays.
- Their results since January include only two wins and suggest systemic problems beyond single matches.
Prioritize Defensive Recruitment
- Pep Guardiola must stop buying overlapping attacking options and address defensive needs immediately.
- Robson urges signing centre-backs and using existing squad defenders before further forward purchases.
Supply, Not Just The Striker
- The problem for Erling Haaland isn't only finishing; City are failing to create quality service and possession.
- Craig Burley highlights turnovers in dangerous areas as the root of both transition and defensive issues.
