Manchester, England — Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that his team no longer instills the fear it once did at the Etihad Stadium as they prepare to face Chelsea in today’s Premier League fixture.
In an interview published on the club’s official website, the Spanish tactician reflected on his team’s recent struggles, pointing out their inability to maintain possession during crucial moments.
“Teams used to come to the Etihad and stay back,” Guardiola said. “The first team I saw using a man-marking strategy here was Neil Warnock’s Cardiff. Now, almost everyone does it. Teams come here and play man-to-man, regardless of the opposition.”
He highlighted how teams now put pressure on Manchester City’s goalkeepers, Ederson and Stefan Ortega, disrupting their rhythm.
“You have to adapt and handle the ball better; otherwise, even qualifying for the Champions League becomes a challenge,” Guardiola explained.
Addressing the root of the issue, Guardiola acknowledged that the team’s main struggle this season has been poor ball retention.
“Our problem is with the ball. If you don’t pass accurately to your teammate, everything becomes incredibly difficult,” he noted.
As City takes on Chelsea, Guardiola and his squad will look to rectify these issues and reassert their dominance at home.
By Taiwo Olatinwo| January 25, 2025
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