Difficult to break intensive defense, 26 shots without a goal! Netizen: Guardiola s tactical style of play is no longer suitable for the Premier League

In the focus match of the 36th round of the Premier League in the 2024-25 season, Manchester City challenged Southampton away. In the first half, although Manchester City controlled more than 70% of the ball possession rate, they only had one shot directly, and the two sides exchanged a blank sheet. In the second half, B's shot from a small angle was cleared by Stephens' goal line, and Marmush shot into the crossbar. In the end, Manchester City drew Southampton 0-0, and the four consecutive Premier League wins came to an abrupt end.

Judging from the game data, Manchester City shot 26 times, 5 shots, and expected goals 1.89; Southampton shot 2 times, 0 shots, and expected goals 0.11. In terms of ball possession, Manchester City has a whopping 72%, with a passing success rate of 89%, while Southampton has 28% and 76%. After this game, Manchester City played first, 2 points away from the Gunners and only 2 points ahead of fifth-ranked Chelsea, and Chelsea's direct confrontation with Newcastle will further stir up the situation in the standings.

Comments after the match: Saints set a record, Blue Moon left regrets

After the game, commentator Zhan Jun commented on Weibo, praising Southampton for being destined to be relegated, with 1 point in this draw, he avoided becoming the team with the least points in the Premier League ever with a score of 12 points, which is 1 point more than the 11-point record set by Derby County in 2007-08. He also looks forward to their return to the Premier League stage in the Championship next season. At the same time, Zhan Jun pointed out that Haaland's condition is still adjusting after his comeback. If Guardiola can replace Marmush earlier, it may change the situation of the game. The result of this game also made Arsenal, who was not playing, breathed a sigh of relief, while Chelsea and Newcastle saw hope of surpassing Manchester City.

Player rating: Many players performed mediocrely, Doku became the highlight

The Manchester Evening News scored Manchester City players, Ederson, Lewis, Akanji, Kovasic and Foden all scored 6 points; Dias, Gwadior, Doku scored 7 points; B Se, De Bruyne, and Haaland only scored 5 points; Savignho and O'Reilly also scored 6 points. It can be seen that although Manchester City has the advantage on the court, the players' performance in key links did not meet expectations, especially Haaland, whose form still needs time to be retrieved after their comeback.

Tactical dilemma: Manchester City is weak in breaking intensive defense, Guardiola's in-depth analysis

Guardiola was interviewed after the game and analyzed in depth the reasons for the game's failure. He admitted that the opponent's defense line in the second half had a deep retreat, disrupting Manchester City's offensive rhythm. The team missed opportunities in crosses, second landing points, shooting in the penalty area and set pieces. Facing the intensive defense of five to six Southampton players, Manchester City failed to effectively break the defense line through conversion offense, creativity, etc. However, Guardiola also emphasized that this 1 point is still important to the team. Haaland's playing time adjustment is based on actual needs of the game and aims to strengthen threats in the penalty area. But netizens think: Guardiola's tactical playing style is no longer suitable for the Premier League!

De Bruyne's successor battle: Looking for a new core of the Blue Moon midfielder

, the news that De Bruyne is about to bid farewell to Manchester City's career after the end of the season has sparked heated discussion. Chelsea former player Maluda believes that although Manchester City scouts can discover talents in multi-leagues, Gibbs White and Wilz are potential successors, it is extremely difficult to find players who can replace De Bruyne, and Manchester City clubs seem to be not prepared. He suggested that Manchester City should look for players like Tilemans with rich Premier League experience to strengthen their midfield strength.

Historical reenactment and future challenges: Manchester City needs to adjust in time

It is worth noting that the last time Manchester City shot 26 or more times in the Premier League but failed to score, which can be traced back to July 2020. Now the same scene is reappearing, revealing the hidden dangers of Manchester City's offensive end. Next, Manchester City faces a FA Cup final and two Premier League games. They must adjust their state as soon as possible, summarize the experience and lessons learned from this game, strive for victory in subsequent matches, and strive for the season's goals.