By Manchester City’s struggles deepened as Pep Guardiola suffered a fifth consecutive defeat for the first time in his managerial career. Tottenham delivered a stunning 4-0 victory at the Etihad, leaving City reeling and potentially eight points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool, who play Southampton on Sunday.
“Man City were outplayed in every department,” remarked Gary Neville, describing the performance as the poorest he’s seen since Guardiola’s first season at City.
The Etihad started the day on a celebratory note, with midfielder Rodri displaying his Ballon d’Or trophy and news of Guardiola’s new two-year contract extension energizing fans. City dominated the early exchanges, with Phil Foden excelling in a playmaker role, but Erling Haaland’s missed chances proved costly.
Tottenham capitalized ruthlessly, taking the lead through James Maddison’s volley following a sublime Dejan Kulusevski cross. Maddison doubled the advantage after a defensive error, marking a memorable 28th birthday for the England international. Pedro Porro and substitute Brennan Johnson added to City’s misery, as Spurs controlled the game with precision and flair.
The result marked City’s third consecutive Premier League defeat under Guardiola, a first for the Spaniard. “The stadium is shell-shocked. They can’t believe what they are watching,” Neville added after Tottenham’s third goal.
City now face the challenge of avoiding a sixth straight loss when they meet Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday, before hosting Liverpool in a potentially season-defining clash.
Guardiola Admits Defensive Fragility
Reflecting on the defeat, Guardiola acknowledged his team’s defensive vulnerabilities:
“In eight years, we’ve never faced a situation like this. We are fragile defensively and emotionally. Now, it’s about standing up, breaking this run, and moving forward.”
Neville: “City in Decline”
Gary Neville suggested that City’s dominance is waning:
“This is a City side currently in decline. They’ve become easier to play against. The vulnerability is clear for everyone to see.”
Postecoglou Praises “Significant” Spurs Win
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou hailed his team’s performance:
“It’s significant given the context of who we were playing. The resilience and discipline we showed were exceptional. It’s a result that shows we’re on the right track.”
With City’s dominance in question and Spurs gaining momentum, the Premier League landscape is shifting dramatically ahead of a crucial week.
