Champions League: What is actually wrong with Manchester City this season?

Manchester City’s struggles deepened as they suffered a 2-0 defeat against Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday. The loss adds to a growing list of disappointments for the reigning European champions, who are battling to rediscover their form in a season plagued by inconsistency. While Arsenal, AC Milan, Atletico Madrid, Lille, Feyenoord, and Stuttgart all secured victories on the night, City’s defeat in Turin took center stage. Juventus delivered a commanding performance, with their defensive solidity and sharp attacking proving too much for Pep Guardiola’s men to handle. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Dusan Vlahovic rose to meet a pinpoint cross. His header, powered towards the bottom corner, left goalkeeper Ederson helpless despite his best efforts to keep it out.

Juventus capitalized on the momentum and continued to stifle City’s attempts to respond. The visitors, despite their star-studded lineup, struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized Juventus defense. The Italian side eventually sealed the result with a late goal that underscored their dominance and City’s ongoing woes. This defeat extends Manchester City’s dismal run in recent matches, raising concerns about their ability to defend their European title. Guardiola, known for his tactical acumen, faces mounting pressure to turn things around as City’s performances fall short of their lofty standards. The loss in Turin not only jeopardizes their position in the Champions League but also highlights the urgent need for a revival in form and confidence.

Ilkay Gundogan came close to leveling the score for Manchester City, but Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio produced a superb save to deny him. Moments later, Juventus doubled their advantage as Weston McKennie sealed the game with an impressive acrobatic strike in the 75th minute. The victory lifts Juventus to 11 points with two group games remaining. This tally is likely sufficient to secure at least a spot in the knockout phase play-offs, marking a significant step forward in their Champions League campaign. Their disciplined performance and clinical finishing highlighted their resurgence on the European stage, leaving Manchester City with much to ponder as their struggles continue.

Manchester City’s struggles persist, with just one win in their last 10 matches across all competitions, including seven defeats. This poor run of form has left the reigning European champions in a precarious position in the Champions League standings. Currently sitting 22nd with only eight points, City teeter on the edge of elimination as the top 24 teams advance to the knockout stages. Their next match will be pivotal as they face Paris Saint-Germain, who trail Guardiola’s side by just a single point. A victory is essential for City to steady their faltering campaign and keep their Champions League hopes alive. However, with mounting pressure and inconsistent performances, the challenge ahead is immense.

"We have to get points, we'll go to Paris to try and do that and the same goes for the final match at home (to Club Brugge)," said Pep Guardiola.