Guardiola accepts blame as Manchester City ruin 21-year record
Pep Guardiola has taken full responsibility for Manchester City’s struggles after their dramatic 2-1 derby defeat to Manchester United on Sunday.
The loss, City’s eighth in their last 11 games, leaves the reigning champions in crisis and nine points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Speaking after the game, Guardiola admitted he has fallen short in his role.
“I’m the boss, I’m the manager, and I’m not good enough,” he said. “I have to find a solution. It’s as simple as that. It’s not about blaming players—this is on me.”
Amad Diallo scored United’s winning goal against Pep Guardiola’s side on Sunday – Getty image
The defeat capped a poor run for City, now fifth in the league standings, and their worst form since 2003.
Bruno Fernandes’ late penalty and Amad Diallo’s winner overturned City’s early lead from Josko Gvardiol’s header, leaving Guardiola searching for answers.
Senior players echoed the frustration. Phil Foden criticized the defensive lapses, calling them “youth-team defending.”
Bernardo Silva added, “We deserved what happened. At this level, it’s not about luck. Over 10 games, it’s about decisions, and lately, we’ve been playing like an Under-15 team.”
The defeat comes just weeks after Guardiola signed a two-year contract extension, arguably showing the club’s faith in him despite their poor form.
Next, City face Aston Villa as they aim to halt the downward spiral and bring back their winning mentality.
