Why Manchester City Are Struggling This Season – Explained

Photo by Mike

Manchester City’s 2024/25 campaign has been far from the dominant displays fans have come to expect, raising the question: Why is Manchester City struggling this season? The answer involves a complex set of issues, ranging from player fatigue to tactical challenges. The overuse of key players, combined with the relentless schedule of domestic and international competitions, has taken a toll. Even at the highest level, footballers are not immune to the physical and mental strain of playing over 60 games a season. This fatigue can result in dips in form, increased injury risk, and an inability to maintain peak performance.

Reasons Behind Manchester City’s Struggles

1. Adapting to New Styles of Play
   Pep Guardiola’s tactical innovations often require time for players to adjust. This season, tweaks in formation and approach have left the team vulnerable, particularly against counter-attacking sides. Opponents have exploited gaps in City’s midfield and defense, leading to an increase in goals conceded.
2. Integration of New Players
   The arrival of new signings like Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis has disrupted the team’s rhythm. While talented, these players need time to adapt to Guardiola’s demanding system, which relies heavily on positional discipline and quick decision-making.
3. Overuse of Key Players
   Stars like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne have been stretched thin due to their importance in key matches. Injuries to Rodri and other squad members have exacerbated this issue, forcing Guardiola to rely on a smaller pool of players.
4. Lack of Motivation
   After achieving incredible success last season with a treble win, maintaining motivation has proven difficult for some players. A natural psychological dip following such triumphs is not uncommon in football.
5. Injuries
   Injuries to pivotal players like Rodri have significantly weakened City’s defensive structure. Statistics show a stark contrast in City’s performance when Rodri is absent, highlighting how crucial he is to their midfield stability.
6. Opposition Awareness
   Teams are increasingly aware of City’s threats and have adapted their strategies accordingly. Many sides now employ deep defensive blocks or aggressive counter-attacks to neutralize Guardiola’s possession-based style.

Is There Still Hope for Manchester City This Season?

With the Premier League title race effectively over, City currently sit fifth—attention turns toward securing a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. Despite their struggles, City remain within striking distance of third place and have shown glimpses of recovery in recent matches. Their squad depth and quality provide a foundation for optimism.

City’s ability to qualify for next season’s Champions League hinges on consistent performances against mid-table teams and direct rivals like Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. A strong finish in the league could salvage what has been an otherwise disappointing season.

What Pep Needs to Do to Bring the Team Back to Where They Belong

1. Maximize Remaining EPL Games
   Guardiola must focus on tactical adjustments for upcoming fixtures against manchester united, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace—teams that pose significant challenges. Rotating players effectively while maintaining intensity will be key.
2. Reinforce Defensive Stability
   Addressing vulnerabilities in defense is critical. Utilizing January signings like Nico as a “mini-Rodri” could stabilize the midfield.
3. Reignite Player Motivation
   Pep needs to instill renewed hunger within the squad by emphasizing the importance of finishing strong and securing Champions League football.
4. Prepare for Summer Transfers
   Guardiola should plan for strategic acquisitions during the summer window to replace aging players and bolster weak areas such as central defense and midfield depth.

Conclusion

The question Why Manchester City are struggling this season has being a concern by the fans. From tactical adjustments to injury woes and opposition strategies, City face an uphill battle but remain capable of turning things around with careful planning and execution. While this season may not end with silverware, ensuring Champions League qualification could pave the way for a resurgence next year.

Why is Manchester City struggling this season? We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share your perspective in the comments below!