Manchester City experienced an unusual scene of celebration from Bournemouth fans, who were understandably jubilant after their sideโs victory over the reigning Premier League champions. Andoni Iraolaโs team capitalized on a poor showing from City, whose struggles have become increasingly evident in recent matches.
Cityโs midweek loss to Spurs in the Carabao Cup ended their undefeated streak, and their league defeat to Bournemouth further highlighted their current difficulties. Despite Arsenalโs earlier setback to Newcastle, which seemed to open the door for City in the title race, the Blues failed to take advantage. A late goal from Josko Gvardiol served only as a consolation in a 2-1 defeat.
Cityโs performance was lackluster and uncharacteristic, with Bournemouth working harder and showing greater desireโqualities typically associated with Guardiolaโs teams. The City manager appeared visibly frustrated on the touchline but managed to maintain composure as his sideโs struggles mounted.
Guardiolaโs growing dissatisfaction stems partly from an injury crisis that shows no signs of easing. While key players like Kyle Walker, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jeremy Doku were fit enough to return against Bournemouth, the absences of John Stones and Ruben Dias added to the teamโs woes. Guardiola has emphasized the importance of players pushing through injuries, but the squadโs intentionally small sizeโa hallmark of his managerial philosophyโhas exacerbated the issue.
A recent study highlighted the heavy workload City players have faced, averaging over 60 games per season since 2018. Seven of the top ten players with the most appearances are from City, and severalโincluding Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, Ilkay Gundogan, and Edersonโfeatured prominently at the Vitality Stadium. This level of intensity has undoubtedly taken its toll.
On a wet and gloomy day on the south coast, Bournemouth proved formidable opponents. Iraola has elevated the teamโs level, and their earlier home victory against Arsenal served as a warning. Within the opening minutes, Ederson was called into action, making two early saves before Milos Kerkez surged past Foden and set up Antoine Semenyo. Holding off Gvardiol, Semenyo turned and placed his shot into the far corner, sending the home crowd into raptures.
City, who have made a habit of falling behind this season, once again found themselves chasing the game. However, their usual ability to stay patient and capitalize on key moments was absent. Bournemouth consistently disrupted Cityโs rhythm, breaking down their attacks with a few incisive passes. Cityโs vulnerability in transition was glaring, as it took less time for Bournemouth to counter than for City to construct meaningful attacks.
The second half brought more frustration for City. Kyle Walker, who had been struggling, lost possession to Semenyo and fouled him in frustration before angrily slamming the ball away. Guardiola turned to his bench, bringing on Rico Lewis, but Nathan Akeโs inability to continue added to Cityโs troubles.
By this point, City were already 2-0 down, with Evanilson converting another Kerkez assist midway through the second half. It became clear that Cityโs efforts were like trying to fill a leaking bucket. Gvardiolโs powerful header in the final 15 minutes provided a glimmer of hope, but Bournemouth held firm through a tense injury-time period.
Cityโs fatigue and disorganization were evident, leaving them unable to mount a serious comeback. The loss marked their fifth defeat in six matches across all competitions, a worrying trend ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures against Feyenoord and Liverpool. For now, the reigning champions are left searching for answers as their season takes an unexpectedly difficult turn.
