New Delhi: Manchester City are used to living at the top of the mountain and for the most of the Pep Guardiola’s reign the Premier League champions have looked untouchable turning season into possessions and records into stepping stones. But for the first time in years, they walk into a new campaign surrounded by a cloud of uncertainty. The question isn’t just whether they can win again rather it’s whether this version of City can rediscover the hunger and sharpness that made them one of the most dominant sides in football history.
Last season wasn’t a disaster by any stretch as City still played their way into the latter stages of Europe but still managed to collect the silverware and look frightening at their best. But their sharp edges dulled as they dropped points in games they normally cruise through. Injuries to key players made them look vulnerable in ways fans aren’t used to and for the first time since Guardiola’s blueprint took hold, rivals started to believe City could be beaten over a long campaign.
The bigger concern wasn’t just the results but the performances. City looked flat in the moments where they would overwhelm teams. The pressing wasn’t as coordinated, the midfield dominance lacked the impact it used to deliver in absence of Rodri. For a club so obsessed with perfection that hint of mortality felt significant.
Guardiola’s rebuild in progress
Guardiola didn’t ignore the warning signs rather this summer he has invested more into reshaping the squad. With a couple of senior figures moved on, making space for the fresher legs and new ideas. The emphasis seems clear this season to inject energy and tactical flexibility and rediscover the spark that drives long winning streaks.
Pep has always been ruthless in his evolution. At Barcelona, Bayern and now City he has never been afraid to let go of big names if it meant keeping the machine sharp. This season feels like another of those moments as City aren’t standing still infact they are adjusting before cracks widen into gaps.
Leadership in transition
Another subplot in City’s campaign is leadership with some experienced heads gone, Guardiola will look to the likes of Ruben Dias and Rodri to carry the dressing room. This leadership transition could define the season. City has always been about collective strength but those pivotal voices in the squad matter when the pressure ramps up in February and March.
With all the changes, Erling Haaland remains the most fascinating part of the puzzle. His goal numbers speak for themselves but last season showed how tricky it can be to fully integrate a striker of his profile into Guardiola’s system. There were games where he was unstoppable, bullying defenses and scoring from anywhere.
If City want’s to bounce back stronger, finding balance with Haaland is non-negotiable. He doesn’t need 60 goals again rather he needs to be the focal point who unlocks when things get tight.
Circling rivals and what this season means
City’s quest for a comeback won’t happen in a vacuum. Arsenal are desperate to turn last year’s near miss into something greater. Liverpool will look to defend their title while Chelsea and Manchester United, unpredictable as ever, can’t be ignored either. For once, City may not have the luxury of coasting through the league but they will need to scrap for every point.
For Guardiola this season isn’t just about trophies rather it’s about proving the empire he has built still has room to evolve. Critics will point to fatigue, player turnover and the natural cycle of dominance as reasons why City might finally slip. But history says writing off Guardiola is a mistake as every time doubts creep in but he finds a way to reinvent.
Can City bounce back? Indeed. They have the talent, the manager and the winning culture. The only question is whether the hunger is still same burning as fierce as before. What could happen this season will not just define season for City but the next chapter of Guardiola’s legacy.