The arrival of Pep Guardiola seemed to be a breath of fresh air as the Spaniard was signed to bring back the glory days to Manchester City. But the idea of appointing Pep seemed to have backfired as the Sky Blues have failed to collect a single piece of silverware this season. They were ousted by Arsenal in the FA Cup as the Gunners piled more misery to Pep by defeating them 2-1.
Questions were raised over Pep’s tactics as they faltered in the Premier League race despite having the squad depth. The Spaniard brought Leroy Sane, John Stones, Gabriel Jesus and Ilkay Gundogan across the two transfer windows but failed to gather that necessary momentum which was needed in this sort of marathon league.
Guardiola’s tactical approach and his knack of having a ball player at the squad might have been the problem with the Citizens. The Spaniard should have at least been fighting for the top two places after having the squad of his choice.
Absence of Vincent Kompany for the most of the season
It has been proved if Kompany remains fit he is the best defender among the current City defenders. The Belgian had an injury-marred season and only appeared in the last few matches. City defence looked far better composed when Kompany was leading the backline. John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi looked good in patches and Guardiola needs to undergo a complete makeover of the defence. The side back section also remains a grave concern as both Gael Clichy and Bacary Sagna are on the wrong side of their playing career and Pep is expected to infuse a few new names.
Messy Midfield
Ilkay Gundogan only played five matches this season as he ruptured his ligament after that. Gundogan’s absence pointed out the fragilities of the City midfield as the absence of a holding midfielder was felt terribly. Guardiola often deployed a 4-1-4-1 formation which allowed the front five to attack with full force but they often stumbled on the counter as Yaya Toure was not at his best form and Fernandinho was performing his defensive duties at the right back position.
Shambolic Bravo
The departure of Joe Hart had an immediate effect as the idea of a goalkeeper who could pass the ball very precisely hurt Guardiola a lot this season. Bravo had a very difficult start to his Premier League and should have received the marching order in his first match. Pep needs to address this situation to give City the much-needed uplift in the next season.
