Manchester City’s BAD HABIT could be their downfall this season… but there’s a surprising silver lining!
Manchester City’s tendency to concede early goals could become a serious issue in their quest for the Premier League title, although there is a silver lining.
Before the recent international break, Pep Guardiola acknowledged that his team was struggling to defend against counter-attacks. This was evident when Fulham scored first at the Etihad, continuing City’s poor record of clean sheets since their opening match. Wolves extended this streak after just seven minutes, proving that Guardiola hadn’t found the solution.
Guardiola speculated after the Fulham match that the problem might be structural. Following the Wolves game, he remarked, “I don’t like conceding early, but I’d be more worried if we started sluggish or lacked competitiveness. That wasn’t the case, and while it’s frustrating, it will help us improve.”
Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen’s goal marked the fourth time City had conceded first in eight Premier League games. In comparison, last season it took them 18 games to reach this point. Additionally, most of the goals this season have come from counter-attacks, which is a recurring problem.
Jack Grealish mentioned that opposing teams are often setting up defensively, with many players behind the ball. Guardiola also highlighted these deep-lying tactics from opponents as a reason why City are conceding on the counter. Despite his concerns, Guardiola believes that the key to resolving their defensive issues is improving their attack.
“We focus a lot on what defines us,” Guardiola explained after the Wolves game. “We always press forward, regardless of the situation. But we have to adapt. Opposing teams use defensive formations, with midfielders almost playing as extra defenders. The solution is in creating chances in tight spaces, like Josko Gvardiol’s goal at Wolves. We need to stay disciplined and patient, because rushing leads to dangerous transitions.”
Guardiola emphasized that while they could play more conservatively, keeping the ball with goalkeeper Ederson, it would make for dull matches. Instead, he trusts his forwards to prevent these transitions.
Despite their habit of conceding first, City remain unbeaten. In fact, they’ve responded quicker this season when falling behind, equalizing on average within 13 minutes, often before halftime. Last season, it took them 24 minutes on average to level the score when they conceded first.
Though City had more clean sheets at this stage last season, they also had more losses and fewer points. While conceding early isn’t ideal, their unbeaten run suggests it’s not a major issue yet.
City can’t afford to keep conceding the first goal if they want to secure the title. However, their ability to respond swiftly showcases the mentality of true contenders.
