Revealed: The simple reason behind Man City’s defensive collapse

Manchester City’s 2-2 draw with Brighton has highlighted the team’s persistent defensive struggles.
With 40 goals conceded in the Premier League this season, City’s defensive record is their worst under Pep Guardiola.

So, what’s behind City’s defensive collapse? The answer lies in their inability to circulate possession effectively.
Previously, City’s dominance in possession masked their defenders’ limitations when defending in isolation.

However, with the team no longer controlling games in the same way, their defensive frailties have been brutally exposed.
The issue is simple: City’s defenders have never been top-level when defending in isolation.

They relied on the team’s possession-based approach to protect them. Now, with the team struggling to maintain possession, their defensive and physical limitations are being exposed.
This analysis raises concerns about City’s ability to address their defensive shortcomings.
As the season enters its critical phase, City’s failure to shore up their defense threatens to undermine their Champions League ambitions.