Man City: Storm ahead!
(Baonghean.vn) - Despite a very good start with 2 wins against Arsenal and Huddersfield, Man City's goal of successfully defending the Premier League title is extremely difficult. Especially after the duo De Bruyne and Bravo had to take a long-term break due to injury.
Entering this season, the challenge for coach Pep Guardiola and his team is not small. While The Citizens only added new player Riyad Mahrez, opponents such as Liverpool, Man Utd, Chelsea... all brought in at least 3 quality new faces. The backup plan for Fernandinho's position is still a difficult problem for the Spanish strategist.
After being “snatched” by Man Utd in the Fred deal, it was Jorginho and Napoli’s turn to “turn their backs”. It can be said that Man City had a transfer period that was not as successful as expected by coach Pep Guardiola and The Citizens fans.Compared to last season, the strength of the Etihad team has not improved much, at least in terms of squad depth.
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| Riyad Mahrez is Man City's only signing in the last transfer window. Photo: Internet |
Surely at this moment, coach Pep Guardiola is feeling regretful for his complacency in strengthening his squad. The Premier League has only passed 2 rounds, but Man City's squad has been seriously damaged. Midfielder De Bruyne and goalkeeper Bravo have suffered very serious injuries.
According to information from Man City's medical team, the Belgian player's "sitting time" is over 3 months, while the former Barcelona goalkeeper's will last until the end of the season.
De Bruyne's absence will greatly affect the strength of the Etihad team. The talent and importance of the player wearing the number 17 shirt for Man City is beyond dispute.
De Bruyne's 8 goals and 16 assists for Man City in the Premier League 2017/2018 are clear proof. It is not an exaggeration to say that the midfielder born in 1991 is the "conductor" and "soul" of the defending champion.
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| De Bruyne will have to rest for at least 3 months. Photo: Internet |
Although not as important as De Bruyne, the absence of goalkeeper Bravo also causes coach Pep Guardiola a headache. Currently, the Chilean goalkeeper is the most reliable backup option for Ederson.
With Man City having to compete in 4 arenas (Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, English League Cup), Ederson alone is not enough. If the former Benfica goalkeeper gets injured or receives a penalty card, Man City will be in a dangerous situation.
Another factor is working against coach Pep Guardiola and his team. Since the 2008/2009 season, no team has successfully defended the Premier League title.
Therefore, the goal of keeping the Premier League trophy at the Etihad Stadium is not simple for Man City. It seems that a stormy season is waiting for The Citizens ahead./.
