Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, which marked a stark fourth consecutive loss in all competitions, centre-back Ruben Dias has urged the critics to think twice before counting City out.
As Manchester City grapple with their troubled start to the season, questions are swirling around their ability to defend the Premier League title successfully.
Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, which marked a stark fourth consecutive loss in all competitions, centre-back Ruben Dias has urged the critics to think twice before counting City out.
This recent setback is particularly significant as it represents the first time in Pep Guardiola’s illustrious managerial career that he has faced four consecutive defeats. Adding to the mounting pressure, the Sky Blues have been unceremoniously eliminated from the League Cup by Tottenham Hotspur, intensifying their struggles as they pursue an unprecedented fifth straight Premier League title.
Despite the gloomy outlook, Dias welcomed scepticism, stating, “I would say, please doubt us, doubt us, feel welcome to do so.”
The Portuguese defender also highlighted the resilience of the squad, recalling a similar challenging period last season, which they referred to as the “dark January,” stressing the importance of unity during tough times.
“What matters is how you bounce back from these moments,” Dias affirmed, echoing the sentiment of perseverance within the team.
City’s campaign has been marred by injuries to key players, including Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, John Stones, Jack Grealish, and up-and-coming talent Oscar Bobb.
The absence of these crucial figures has seriously impacted their form, making the path to recovery more arduous.
As the team prepares to host Tottenham in their next league fixture after the Fifa International break, all eyes will be on City to see if they can regroup and reclaim their throne.
Dias remains optimistic about the team’s potential to rise to the occasion, emphasising, “We don’t find people to kill; we find people to bring into the cause and fight together. That’s what we need to do once again. Until it’s done, it’s not done.”
Reuters
