Manchester City are in their midwinter slump. The team's inability to affect the fortunes of the game is a mystery, even to manager Pep Guardiola. Since New Year's Day, City have struggled with injuries and missed chances. This has led to zero league wins in 2026.
In the match against Bodø/Glimt, Rodri appeared as a player still recovering from injury. His energy levels were low, and he was unable to run midfield like he could before his injury. Similarly, Erling Haaland's form has suffered with only one goal in eight games since January 7th. The Norwegian striker is known for scoring goals, but it seems like he's hit a wall.
Guardiola seemed petrified by City's tameness, unable to effect the fortunes of the game despite his efforts. When asked about the team's performance, he grasped for explanations, citing injuries and a lack of chances as reasons for the defeat. The manager is usually more confident, but this time he seems at a loss.
Phil Foden, one of City's key players, played more like a shadow of himself in the match against Bodø/Glimt. He was substituted at half-time due to his poor performance. Foden has 10 goals and four assists this season, but it seems like he's going through an off spell. The team needs him to perform better if they're going to be competitive.
However, there is some good news for City fans. Signing Marc Guéhi, a first-choice England defender, will prove a coup if he can replicate his performances for Crystal Palace. With Guéhi and Abdukodir Khusanov forming the middle of the rearguard, City may be able to cover for the prolonged absence of Josko Gvardiol and Rúben Dias.
It's clear that City need to get their players back to form as soon as possible if they're going to compete with other top teams in the league. The midwinter slump is a wake-up call, and Guardiola needs to find a way to get his team out of this rut.
In the match against Bodø/Glimt, Rodri appeared as a player still recovering from injury. His energy levels were low, and he was unable to run midfield like he could before his injury. Similarly, Erling Haaland's form has suffered with only one goal in eight games since January 7th. The Norwegian striker is known for scoring goals, but it seems like he's hit a wall.
Guardiola seemed petrified by City's tameness, unable to effect the fortunes of the game despite his efforts. When asked about the team's performance, he grasped for explanations, citing injuries and a lack of chances as reasons for the defeat. The manager is usually more confident, but this time he seems at a loss.
Phil Foden, one of City's key players, played more like a shadow of himself in the match against Bodø/Glimt. He was substituted at half-time due to his poor performance. Foden has 10 goals and four assists this season, but it seems like he's going through an off spell. The team needs him to perform better if they're going to be competitive.
However, there is some good news for City fans. Signing Marc Guéhi, a first-choice England defender, will prove a coup if he can replicate his performances for Crystal Palace. With Guéhi and Abdukodir Khusanov forming the middle of the rearguard, City may be able to cover for the prolonged absence of Josko Gvardiol and Rúben Dias.
It's clear that City need to get their players back to form as soon as possible if they're going to compete with other top teams in the league. The midwinter slump is a wake-up call, and Guardiola needs to find a way to get his team out of this rut.