Manchester City suffered another heavy defeat at home to arch-rivals Manchester United and are 11 points behind leader Liverpool in the Premier League standings.
2-1 defeat representative Manchester City’s fifth defeat in last seven league games Many experts believe the champions are now out of contention to defend their title again. Their current form is a far cry from the performances that led the club to glory. Four consecutive Premier League titles.
It’s been an unfortunate season for the club so far, with 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri ruled out for the rest of the season. ACL injury rupture and amulets Kevin De Bruyne continues to struggle with fitness and form.
Unfortunately for coach Pep Guardiola, the bad news doesn’t seem to end with the team’s poor performance – in fact, it could get worse.
Manchester City star becomes Barcelona target
Barcelona currently has La Liga standings top Striker Robert Lewandowski is in very poor form heading into the festive period 16 goals in just 17 games Playing for the Catalan club so far this season.
However, the striker has just turned 36 and Barcelona appear to be starting to plan for life beyond the Polish striker in order to continue their recent upturn in form, both domestically and in Europe.
According to Spanish SportWitness, Barcelona preparing a blockbuster summer transfer for Erling Haaland The player is believed to be open to a move.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta is believed to have been in contact with Haaland’s agent and it appears the Spanish giants could activate the Norwegian’s release clause next summer. Haaland has been unhappy with City’s recent performances and believes a move to Spain could be the next step in his fledgling career.
The move is a huge blow to Guardiola, who will lose the focal point of his attack amid a staggering number of goals. The club scored 108 goals in just 121 appearances..
The impact of Haaland leaving Manchester City
Although Manchester City’s form has declined significantly this season, Haaland has still accumulated Scored 18 goals in all competitions Currently it is Premier League joint top scorer.
this Rated £123m The striker was involved 50% of Manchester City’s goals this season His departure will leave a huge hole in the forward line at the Etihad Stadium, with other performances in that department lacking.
Haaland v Doku, Foden, Grealish and Savio Season 24/25 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Statistics (per 90 people) | Haaland | organize | foot | Grealish | Savio |
Target | 13 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
xG | 0.81 | 0.1 | 0.2 | 0.11 | 0.27 |
lens | 4.32 | 2.18 | 3 | 1.68 | 2.52 |
Shot on target | 52.2% | 26.7% | 12.5% | 33.3% | 35% |
Win the air duel | 46.7% | 0% | 20% | 16.7% | 0% |
Statistics passed FB reference | |||||
It’s obvious that Haaland’s position at Manchester City is irreplaceable. score more goals That’s more than the other four forward players combined. In addition, this powerful forward also has highest expected goalthe player with the most shots and the highest accuracy among the attacking options Guardiola has.
As the focal point of City’s attack, crucial to the way Pep likes his team to play, Haaland has also won the title most aerial duelsIn recent seasons, he has proven his worth to the team.
Manchester City’s season may not be over and dusted just yet. However, should Barcelona land the Norwegian in the summer, it could leave a void that even Guardiola would struggle to fill.
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Manchester City will surely regret selling their dream Rodri replacement for just £10.5m
Manchester City make the mistake of selling their dream Rodri replacement for just £10.5m
