London
Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has hinted that his team’s reign as Premier League champions may be nearing its end. Following a 2-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday night, marking his first-ever four-game losing streak across all competitions, Guardiola suggested another team might deserve the title this season. City, who have won six of the last seven Premier League titles, now trail leaders Liverpool by five points.
‘Maybe after seven years winning six Premier Leagues, maybe one year another team deserve it,’ Guardiola told BBC Sport after the match.
The defeat came despite Erling Haaland putting City ahead in the first half. Brighton’s Joao Pedro equalized in the 78th minute, and O’Riley’s late goal sealed City’s loss. City was weakened by injuries to key players, including Jeremy Doku, Jack Grealish, John Stones, and Ruben Dias, as well as long-term absentees like Rodrigo and Oscar Bobb.
Guardiola acknowledged the impact of these injuries, saying, ‘The point is we don’t have the players… In one game we can do it, but to be consistent, we cannot.’ Despite the setbacks, he praised his players’ efforts but admitted that the current squad lacks the depth needed for consistent success.
Looking ahead, Guardiola expressed hope for a turnaround after the upcoming international break. ‘I will reflect…clear our heads, players come back fit… I’m sure when the players come back, we’ll be back to the best. This is my challenge, and I love a challenge,’ he said.
