Manchester City suffered their fourth Premier League defeat of the season against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Josep Guardiola’s side faced Eddie Howe’s side at St James’ Park, losing 2-1 with Harbury Barnes scoring both goals for the Magpies.
It was a close game between the two teams, ultimately giving Howe his first win against Guardiola’s side.
City had a chance to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal to just one point, but failed to capitalize.
Chelsea won their match against Burnley first, moving the Blues into second place in the league, leading Guardiola’s City to third.
Alan Shearer criticizes Man City’s defense
Football pundit Alan Shearer has spoken out about Man City’s biggest concern, which could derail their Premier League title challenge with Arsenal this season.
The former Newcastle United striker pointed out City’s defensive weaknesses and claimed the Magpies could have easily scored more goals in the game.
“I can understand his frustration because his team has been beaten so many times in the second half.” Shearer told Premier League Productions, as reported by Metro.
“They haven’t produced a lot. He was raw right after the game, he’s seen teams lose really tough games. But for me, the concern is not so much the referee’s decisions or bad luck, but how many opportunities they are giving up.
“If Newcastle had put on their shooting boots they could have scored six or seven points. They had four absolute players. How they cut through City will be a bigger concern for me.”
“They’re certainly not as good as they used to be, and we may never see them as good as they were when they had that unbelievable run.” he added.
“I mean, the standard they set in terms of winning trophies and goals and everything else was great for them and me.” But I don’t know if we’ll ever see them reach that standard again.
“Without the great Rodri and the protection he gives the team, they are certainly not the same team. I don’t know if they would have replaced him yet. Probably not if they could find someone as good.
“But the concern for me would be defensively. They are always trying to score goals, especially with Haaland up front, but defensively they are certainly not as sharp as they used to be.”
What is actually wrong with Man City?
Shearer provides a good analysis of City’s defence. Newcastle United could and should have scored more goals.
City’s midfield looked non-existent and was unable to provide the defense needed.
The Magpies had several chances to score more goals, but it was goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma who saved the Sky Blues time and time again with some great performances.
In addition to defensive weaknesses, Man City’s over-reliance on Erling Haaland could be a huge blow to the team this season.
When he’s not scoring, he doesn’t look like he’s scoring. Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden have contributed recently, but the team needs more goalscorers.
If the opponents can keep Haaland quiet, I feel they can beat City given the chances of their defense conceding goals.
Guardiola needs to address this issue before it is too late. Arsenal could open up a seven-point lead over City after winning against Tottenham on Sunday.
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