Manchester City’s Spending Spree Puts Guardiola Under Pressure
Half a billion dollars, big names, and growing doubts. City’s recent defeats have turned investment into scrutiny for Guardiola.
A massive investment with little reward
Manchester City have spent more than $500 million (€428 million) over the past 12 months in an attempt to refresh an ageing squad and reclaim their status as England’s dominant force. So far, however, the results have failed to match the investment.
The situation worsened in the space of a few days. A 2-0 defeat in the derby against Manchester United was followed by a shocking 3-1 loss to Bodø/Glimt in the Champions League, exposing serious flaws in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Costly signings, familiar problems
Despite the heavy spending — which continued in January with the arrivals of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guéhi — City’s issues remain evident. Injuries have played a role, but the lack of squad balance is increasingly difficult to ignore.
There is still no natural replacement for Erling Haaland, who may be feeling the physical toll after barely missing any matches. The Norwegian striker has scored just one goal in his last eight games, and it came from the penalty spot.
At right-back, City never signed a direct successor to Kyle Walker, forcing Matheus Nunes to fill in out of position. While the Portuguese midfielder has performed admirably, it is far from a long-term solution.
Guardiola’s trust in his bench under question
Guardiola’s decision to rely almost exclusively on the same core of players during the final weeks of 2025 has also raised eyebrows. It suggests a lack of confidence in several squad members brought in during the expensive rebuild.
Players such as Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri, signed to add depth and quality, have yet to justify their price tags or earn consistent trust from the manager.
Wolves match now under the microscope
All of this adds pressure ahead of Saturday’s home match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. On paper, it should be routine: Wolves sit bottom of the table with just one league win all season. In reality, nothing feels straightforward for City right now.
City have won just two of their last seven matches in all competitions, while Wolves arrive unbeaten in their last five. It is a stark contrast that highlights the current fragility of Guardiola’s side.
The title race tightens
City begin Matchday 23 in second place, seven points behind Arsenal. The Gunners, however, have failed to fully capitalize after drawing against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.
Elsewhere, Aston Villa — level on points with City — travel to Newcastle, while Liverpool sit seven points back in fourth before their trip to Bournemouth.
For Guardiola, the message is clear: the money has been spent — now the results must follow.
