Home of football statistics and historyCan anybody stop the Manchester City juggernaut? Given Manchester City’s achievements in recent years, it seems unlikely anybody can match their consistency or unreal winners’ mentality developed under Pep Guardiola. Liverpool, like last season, will provide a stern challenge right till the finish for the defending champions, but even they’re destined to falter on multiple occasions.
If their inability to keep a clean sheet in their first three games proves anything, a major fumble will result in dropped points soon. City, meanwhile, have further evolved their squad strength with Rodri and Joao Cancelo’s signing. One as Fernandinho’s successor and the other competition for Kyle Walker, Guardiola has instilled a cut-throat mentality into his players.
It’s either win or be left out. This relentless pressure manages to get the absolute best from anyone, be it a regular like Raheem Sterling or a substitute like Riyad Mahrez. The players have perfectly integrated his style into their system and are almost robotic with how perfect they are in executing his plan.
Guardiola’s already reiterated that retaining the Premier League is of more importance than winning the UEFA Champions League, as his priorities are quite clear. This could be Sergio Aguero’s final season in City colours, so he’ll look to go out with a bang. As should David Silva, who is almost confirmed to leave after this campaign.
With the experienced figures contributing consistently in the final third, the prime talent are not stopping anytime soon. Sterling is almost unplayable due to his hunger for goals and extremely clever style, while no team can keep out Kevin De Bruyne’s creative passes. The persistent workhorse in Bernardo Silva should continue churning out chances, while Riyad Mahrez and Iilkay Gundogan’s flair guarantee many points.
Then there’s Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus, currently in the injury-pile but ready to cause havoc after recovering. Cancelo’s an explosive full-back capable of many assists, while Benjamin Mendy is also on the side-lines. The unbelievable depth in City’s squad stretches from their goalkeeper to their strikers. This is exactly why they’re ahead of the curve, as no team, including Liverpool, can match their squad strength.
A fear factor has been created in the Premier League when it comes to City. Granted, Liverpool might stand up to their might, but not many others can follow suit. The relentlessness showcased against Tottenham Hotspur is enough proof why they will do the trifecta. Granted they did drop some points (no thanks to VAR) against Spurs, but their unrelenting attitude will be persist to the end.
While the neutrals will pray for a different champion to what’s turning into a monopoly in the Premier League, Manchester City is too big a giant to bring down anytime soon. Guardiola’s dream to match or overcome Sir Alex Ferguson’s record of a Premier League trifecta should come true come May.
0 Comments