Manchester City, who started the Premier League with a big 4–0 victory, were expected to remain strong contenders for the title. However, the 2–0 home defeat to Tottenham in the second round revealed that Pep Guardiola’s new squad is still far from perfect.
Well-known analysts carefully examined the result. According to experts from manchestercity.news, the main reason for the defeat was Guardiola’s mistake in team selection. Specifically, they argued that not trusting Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov against Tottenham negatively impacted City’s performance.
City, having crushed Wolverhampton 4–0 in the first round, entered their first home match of the season in high spirits. But Spurs also showed that they had serious ambitions this season. Brennan Johnson opened the scoring in the 35th minute, and just before half-time, Joao Palhinha punished goalkeeper James Trafford’s blunder to make it 2–0.
Ruben Dias and Rico Lewis were singled out for criticism. Dias, despite his experience, was too slow, while Lewis struggled badly on the flank. Many believe that had Khusanov been given a chance, the match could have turned out differently. His pace and suitability for playing in a high defensive line would have been valuable to City.
In the previous match, Khusanov played only eight minutes, but he already showed qualities similar to Dias in handling the ball, while being faster. That is why his absence raised serious questions.
Relying on slow central defenders to hold a high line is considered Guardiola’s biggest mistake. Khusanov could have been the solution to that issue.
Moreover, Khusanov would likely have handled the right-back role better than Rico Lewis, who was under heavy pressure.
The only positive from this defeat is that City realized their weaknesses before the transfer window closes. Guardiola has about a week to fix them.
Experts listed the key problems:
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James Trafford is talented but not yet ready for top-level pressure. A proven keeper like Gianluigi Donnarumma could be the answer.
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Rayan Aït-Nouri’s injury creates new problems at left-back.
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If Khusanov is not used at right-back, Guardiola and sporting director Hugo Viana must urgently sign a player for that position.
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A new winger is needed to strengthen the attack. Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, who may leave, is a good option.
In conclusion, the Tottenham match was a wake-up call for City. If Guardiola continues to ignore Khusanov’s speed and technical abilities, he may have to completely rethink the team’s defensive structure. This defeat should serve as a big early-season lesson.
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