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Manchester City Favourites To Retain League Title

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Manchester City

Manchester City Favourites To Retain League Title

After Saturday’s impressive performance against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, we discuss what makes Manchester City favourites to retain their Premier League title.

 

Rock Solid Defence

Manchester City have not conceded a Premier League goal since their surprise opening day 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur. On Saturday they contained Chelsea’s attack so well that they didn’t record a single shot on target. Pep Guardiola’s side have made their best ever defensive start to a league campaign. Ruben Dias’ addition to the team last year had a massive impact on the side, as his leadership and confidence improves the defensive players around him. John Stones has possibly seen the biggest improvement in his game since the Portuguese international’s arrival. Ederson is a world-class keeper, who is extremely comfortable with ball at his feet, allowing City to play out from the back with confidence.

Guardiola doesn’t believe that City’s defensive form is down to their defenders, but rather a result of a team effort. Anyone watching the game at the weekend could see how their high-pressing line squeezed Chelsea and stopped them from creating meaningful chances. This high-press began with the forward line not allowing Chelsea’s defenders time on the ball and led to them being wasteful in possession.

 

Squad Depth & Creativity

Despite failing to replace Sergio Aguero with a recognised goal-scorer, Manchester City have not struggled in front of goal this season. They have already scored five or more goals on four separate occasions this season  (including cup competitions). The goals have been spread around the team, with 14 different players finding the back of the net. Lacking a front-man could be a problem in tighter games towards the end of the season, especially in the latter stages of cup competitions. Pep probably understands this and could be why rumours are emerging that Harry Kane is a potential transfer target in January.

Manchester City’s start to the season is made all the more impressive when you consider that key midfielders Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden have only recently returned to action. Both have recovered from injuries sustained in the European Championships and their return has resulted in greater competition for places in the starting XI.

Jack Grealish has seamlessly integrated himself into the team following his £100m move in the summer. The England international’s arrival has resulted in players like Raheem Sterling and Ferran Torres spending more time on the bench. Pep Guardiola has always been praised for his man-management and it seems he will have to work his magic this season to keep members of City’s star-studded squad happy.

 

A Challenging Period

Manchester City are in the middle of a difficult string of fixtures. Following on from their victory at Stamford Bridge, they recently traveled to Paris to take on PSG in the Champions League, ultimately coming up short in a 2-0 loss at the Parc des Princes. They are now scheduled to face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. Fixtures such as these, are going to be a stern test of Guardiola and his squad.

Liverpool also traveled to Europe in midweek, as they faced FC Porto in Portugal. Klopp’s men however will be brimming with confidence after a commanding 5-1 victory in Porto. Pep will be disappointed from City’s lacklustre performance midweek, however knowing his mindset, he must now focus his squad to the task ahead on Sunday, with a belief of securing the 3 points.

 

We hope you enjoyed the article ‘Manchester City Favourites To Retain League Title.’ Do you think Manchester City are going to win the Premier League this season? Can they win the Champions League? Let us know your thoughts!

 

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Drew is a lifelong sports fan from Bristol who currently lives and works in Hong Kong. He has a keen interest in football, rugby, cricket, F1 and NFL.

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