The Fall of a Footballing Giant
Manchester City‘s 2024/25 campaign will go down as one of their most perplexing in recent memory. From Rodri’s injury woes to Kevin De Bruyne’s unexpected decline, and even Erling Haaland’s occasional struggles—nothing seemed to click for Pep Guardiola’s side. For the first time in eight years, the Citizens finished without a single major trophy, leaving fans and pundits questioning what went wrong.
Key Factors Behind City’s Struggles
Midfield Crisis: The Rodri Effect
Rodri’s absence due to injury exposed a glaring weakness in City’s midfield. The Spaniard’s intelligence, composure, and ability to dictate play were sorely missed, leading to disjointed performances. Guardiola’s reliance on makeshift solutions—like playing Matheus Nunes out of position—only compounded the problem.
“I think he’s not a player to play in midfield because he’s not clever enough,” Pep bluntly stated about Nunes after a dismal Manchester derby.
Attacking Woes: Haaland’s Mixed Season
While Erling Haaland still managed 24 goal contributions (21 goals, 3 assists), his influence waned in crucial matches. The Norwegian’s partnership with new signing Omar Marmoush showed promise, but inconsistency plagued City’s frontline.
Defensive Fragility & Tactical Confusion
City’s possession-based dominance eroded, with their average ball retention dropping to levels unseen since the Manuel Pellegrini era. Opponents exploited their high defensive line, leading to costly counter-attacks—most notably in the FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace.
Pep’s Summer Overhaul: Who Stays and Who Goes?
Out with the Old?
- Kevin De Bruyne – Age and injuries have taken their toll; a departure seems inevitable.
- Jack Grealish – Once a £100m marquee signing, now a benchwarmer with just two goal contributions all season.
- Bernardo Silva – Linked with a move away as Guardiola seeks younger, more dynamic midfielders.
New Faces on the Horizon
Manchester City have already begun their recruitment drive, with Porto’s Nico Gonzalez and AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders reportedly high on their list. The club is also eyeing Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri to bolster their full-back options.
Mcw sources suggest that Guardiola is prioritizing “intelligent, versatile midfielders” who can seamlessly adapt to his system.
Can Pep Bounce Back?
Guardiola’s decision to extend his contract mid-season was a clear vote of confidence from the board. However, the pressure is on to deliver a major rebuild.
“We cannot do it,” Pep admitted in a rare moment of vulnerability during a press conference.
The upcoming transfer window will be crucial. If City can address their midfield deficiencies and inject fresh energy into the squad, they could quickly return to their dominant best.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Lessons
Manchester City’s 2024/25 campaign was a stark reminder that even the best teams can falter. For Mcw readers, the key takeaway is this: Guardiola’s next move will define City’s future. Will he engineer another tactical revolution, or is this the beginning of a new era of transition?
What do you think City need most this summer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
