Sometimes, according to Pep Guardiola, “you need a punch in the face” to see how you react. Manchester City have received a metaphorical blow after four games without a win in the Premier League to derail their challenge for a fourth successive title. Given those fixtures, there is every chance City could enjoy three months of accumulating points after a difficult period. “For me as a manager I don’t say: ‘We lose games because you don’t run, you don’t fight, you are complacent, you don’t have character’ – it’s too simplistic. Rodri will be back in central midfield, adding the assurance Guardiola requires because without his compatriot in the Premier League, City have often fallen short.

Source: Punch December 10, 2023 11:38 UTC