Defensive decline of Manchester City: Manchester City’s defensive prowess has been a cornerstone of their success in recent years. However, the 2024/25 season has seen a surprising decline in their defensive performance. Let’s dive into the statistics that highlight this unexpected downturn.
Key Takeaways
- Manchester City’s goals conceded per game has increased from 0.89 in 2023/24 to 1.10 in 2024/25.
- The team’s Expected Goals Against (xGA) has risen from 0.94 to 1.10 per 90 minutes.
- City now face 1.2 shots per match on counter-attacks, up from 0.5 last season.
- Their win rate without Rodri has dropped to 58.3%, compared to 73.6% with him in the lineup.
- The team’s pressing effectiveness has declined, ranking last in pressures resulting in turnovers.
5 Key Stats of Defensive Decline of Manchester City
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Manchester City’s defensive decline is starkly evident in the statistics. In the 2023/24 season, they conceded an average of 0.89 goals per game. Fast forward to 2024/25, and this figure has jumped to 1.10 goals per game. This increase of 0.21 goals per game may seem small, but over a 38-game season, it could result in 8 additional goals conceded – a significant number for a team aiming for the title.
Expected Goals Against on the Rise
The Expected Goals Against (xGA) metric provides further insight into City’s defensive woes. In 2023/24, their xGA stood at 0.94 per 90 minutes. This season, it has increased to 1.10. This rise indicates that City is not only conceding more goals but also allowing their opponents to create higher quality chances.
Vulnerability to Counter-Attacks
One of the most alarming statistics is the increase in shots faced on counter-attacks. Last season, City faced an average of 0.5 shots per match from counter-attacks. This season, that number has more than doubled to 1.2. This suggests a significant breakdown in City’s ability to control the game and prevent quick transitions from their opponents.
The Rodri Factor
The absence of key midfielder Rodri has had a notable impact on City’s performance. With Rodri in the lineup, City boasts a win rate of 73.6%. Without him, this drops dramatically to 58.3%. This stark difference highlights Rodri’s crucial role in City’s defensive structure and their struggle to find an adequate replacement during his absence.
Pressing Problems
Manchester City’s pressing game, once a hallmark of their defensive strategy, has also seen a decline. The team now ranks last in the Premier League for pressures resulting in turnovers. This ineffective pressing allows opponents more time and space to build attacks, contributing to the increased defensive vulnerability.
As per Understat, Man City have the 8th worst xGa in the league now. That defence is suffering.
pic.twitter.com/kUkgx5pyGp
— Rowie (@row_lyne) December 1, 2024Tactical and Personnel Issues
Backline Coordination
The defensive issues aren’t limited to midfield. There have been noticeable problems with backline coordination. In matches against Brighton and Sporting CP, poor positioning and lack of communication led to easy scoring opportunities for opponents. The absence of key defenders like John Stones and Nathan Aké due to injuries has disrupted the defensive cohesion.
Midfield Balance
With Rodri sidelined and Kevin De Bruyne absent, City has struggled to find the right midfield balance. The lack of a defensively strong player in the number 6 role has left gaps that opponents have exploited. Experiments with players like Ilkay Gundogan and Mateo Kovacic in this position have not yielded the desired results.
Aging Squad Concerns
It’s worth noting that nine of the 14 players used in a recent match against Tottenham were 29 or older. This aging squad may be contributing to the decline in pressing intensity and recovery speed, crucial elements in City’s defensive system.
Looking Ahead
While Manchester City’s defensive decline is concerning, it’s important to remember that they still possess immense quality and experience. Pep Guardiola, known for his tactical acumen, will undoubtedly be working on solutions.Potential fixes could include:
- Reshaping the winger positions to provide better defensive cover
- Increasing pressing intensity, particularly in the middle third of the pitch
- Experimenting with different players in the crucial number 6 role
- Focusing on improving backline coordination in training
As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Guardiola and his team address these defensive issues. The ability to overcome this challenge could well determine whether Manchester City can maintain their status as Premier League favorites.
Final Thoughts
Manchester City’s defensive decline is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. From statistical underperformance to tactical imbalances and personnel challenges, the team faces a multifaceted problem. However, with their track record of success and the quality within their squad, it would be unwise to write off their chances of turning this situation around. As football fans, we’ll be watching closely to see how this story unfolds in the coming months.
