Are Manchester City back to their best?
By the end of 2024, Manchester City’s form and results were terrible, and Guardiola often seemed restless and stressed.
But after a comprehensive observation of his side, Sunday’s 6-0 win over struggling Ipswich Town He looked much more relaxed. The game was a reminder of why Manchester City have been the dominant force in English football in recent years.
“We’re back to the things that have defined this team for the last ten years,” Guardiola told Sky Sports after the game.
“I’m really happy for the players, they deserve it. They’ve suffered a lot during this time but we’ve regained some of the identity we’ve lost along the way.”
Just one league win from nine league games in November and December has done huge damage to City’s hopes of a fifth consecutive title as they are now 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
A top-four finish is far more realistic, with Ipswich’s goal helping them leapfrog Newcastle into fourth, six points behind second-placed Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.
However, Guardiola was delighted to see signs of his old side as they took complete control against Town.
“(It’s) much better,” he added. “Maybe not our best, but closer.
“The players realize where we are and that we lack standards because it’s not just about winning titles but the joy of doing your best.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a big actor in London or a small theater in Sheffield.
“I think the players proved a lot and hopefully this can be the start of understanding who we are.”
