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Disappointing Defeat at Villa Park
Manchester City fans are feeling the heat after their team’s latest setback against Aston Villa, a match that saw them lose 2-1 at Villa Park. The defeat marks another low point in City’s recent form, leaving supporters questioning Pep Guardiola’s tactical choices.
Goals That Shifted the Momentum
Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers were the heroes for Villa, scoring the goals that propelled their team to victory and allowed them to leapfrog the reigning champions into fifth place in the Premier League table. Despite a late effort from Phil Foden, who found the net in stoppage time, City could not salvage a point from the match.
Gundogan Under Fire
One key decision that drew ire from the fans was Guardiola’s decision to keep midfielder Ilkay Gundogan on the pitch for the entire match. Many supporters took to social media to express their disbelief, questioning why Guardiola persisted with a player they felt was underperforming. Comments flooded in, with one fan stating, âWhy can’t Pep replace Gundogan? He is nowhere in defence and attack. Slow to chase back.â
Calls for Change in the Squad
Criticism of Gundogan was not isolated, as several fans pointed fingers at other veteran players like Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva, suggesting that their time in the starting lineup should come to an end. One frustrated fan commented, âIf Pep continues to play his older players, they don’t even look like winning.â
Guardiolaâs Tactical Choices Questioned
Another supporter chimed in, saying, âGundogan and Grealish have contributed zero in this second half. Pep will still keep them on till the end of the match or 70.â The sentiment was clear: fans are losing patience with Guardiolaâs reliance on seasoned players who they believe are not meeting the required standards.
Late Substitution and Its Impact
Gundogan was eventually substituted in the 73rd minute for winger Savinho, but by then, the damage had been done. Cityâs loss dropped them to sixth place in the Premier League, leaving them nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.
Praise for Villaâs Rising Star
While City fans were left fuming, Aston Villaâs Morgan Rogers received accolades for his performance. Former City goalkeeper Joe Hart praised Rogers on BBC Radio 5 Live, saying, âI am loving watching Morgan Rogers play. He looks super intelligent, taking the game by the scruff of the neck. Heâs not frantically looking for the ball, but heâs in the right place.â
Looking Ahead: Boxing Day Clash
As Manchester City looks to rebound from this defeat, they will face Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Boxing Day. Fans will be hoping for a more cohesive performance and a shift in Guardiolaâs approach to squad selection.
Fan Sentiment: A Call for Change
The mounting frustration among Manchester City supporters highlights a growing concern about the team’s direction under Guardiola. With many calling for a shake-up in the squad, it remains to be seen whether the manager will heed the warnings or continue down the same path. As the festive fixtures approach, City fans will be watching closely to see if their team can regain its footing in the Premier League.
