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Manchester City’s Collapse: From Dominance to Doubt in Just One Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated May 17, 2025 8:37 PM ET

Manchester City’s dynasty crumbles, stuck in sixth place in the Premier League this season. They trail Liverpool by 18 points after 36 matches. And today played out a timid FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace that also exposed their fragile mindset.

The league table highlights City’s struggles. Aston Villa, with 66 points, edge them out by one point for fifth. Champions League qualification slips further away.

Winning Only The Club World Cup Won't Rescue Pep's Legacy

Crystal Palace stunned City in the FA Cup final. Eberechi Eze’s goal secured Palace’s first major trophy. City’s lack of fight was painfully clear.

A critical moment defined their defeat. Erling Haaland, usually clinical, passed a crucial penalty to Omar Marmoush, who missed. This hesitation screamed fear, not confidence.

Champions League hopes hang by a thread. City’s 65 points keep them in contention, but their scared playstyle invites pressure. Rivals sense blood in the water.

Financial Storm Approaching.

Financial Fair Play allegations cast a long shadow. Over 100 charges, some from 2009, could bring crippling fines or relegation. The club braces for a reckoning.

Pep Guardiola’s future grows uncertain. His contract runs to 2027, but fans question his leadership. This season’s collapse tests his once-untouchable status.

Rodri’s absence, due to an ACL injury, has gutted City’s midfield. Their defense leaks goals, and their usual control has vanished. Opponents exploit these gaps mercilessly.

Haaland’s reluctance to take the penalty epitomizes City’s woes. Even recent wins lack conviction, with players second-guessing themselves. This isn’t the fearless City of old.

The Bournemouth match on May 20, 2025, is pivotal. A loss could crush their European dreams, with Villa and Chelsea circling. City’s season teeters on the brink of disaster.

Can Guardiola Regain Control?

Guardiola’s legacy, built on six Premier League titles, remains impressive. Yet, this campaign reveals cracks in his approach. He must rediscover his team’s courage.

Can Pep revive City’s spirit? The FFP verdict and remaining games will decide. For now, Manchester City play like a team afraid of its own shadow.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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