Doubts grow over Pep Guardiola’s future at Manchester City

Manchester City’s defeat to Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 did more than leave the English side in serious trouble in the tie. It also unleashed a wave of criticism aimed at Pep Guardiola, whose long-term project at the club is once again under intense scrutiny.

One of the strongest reactions came from Jamie Carragher, former Liverpool defender and now a television analyst, who openly questioned the Spanish manager’s European legacy. Speaking on CBS after the match, Carragher suggested that Guardiola’s continental record may fall short of expectations.

“This will probably be Guardiola’s last season at Manchester City. How many years has he been there? Nine or ten? Only one Champions League… I think they’ll be disappointed,” he said.

The statement quickly sparked debate in England. While City have dominated English football in recent years, the Champions League remains the ultimate benchmark for the project.

A European legacy still under debate

Despite the numerous domestic trophies won by Guardiola at Manchester City, the team’s record in the Champions League continues to divide opinions.

According to Carragher, City have suffered several painful eliminations over the last decade—sometimes against opponents who, at least on paper, were not expected to beat them.

The analyst recalled the elimination against Lyon in 2020 and the Champions League final loss to Chelsea, arguing that City have had multiple opportunities to dominate Europe but have failed to turn their superiority into more continental titles.

The tactical gamble that left City exposed

One of the most questioned aspects of the match was Guardiola’s tactical decision, which surprised many observers.

The Spanish coach opted for an extremely attacking lineup that ultimately left dangerous spaces across the pitch. Guardiola deployed four attackers with a reduced midfield, a choice that many analysts believe contradicts the core principles that have defined his teams for years.

Traditionally, Guardiola’s sides are built around control, possession and midfield superiority. However, at the Santiago Bernabéu, City seemed to abandon that identity. The team struggled particularly during defensive transitions, exactly the type of scenario where Real Madrid are most dangerous.

An unrecognizable City on the biggest stage

Criticism also focused on the overall performance of the team. Former footballer Mike Grella delivered one of the harshest assessments of the night.

“With the City of three or four years ago I’d say the tie is still open. This City? No chance,” he said.

Grella pointed out that City failed to register a single shot in the second half, while also showing defensive disorganization and a lack of cohesion in midfield.

For many observers, the most concerning aspect was the feeling that City lost their football identity on a stage where they usually impose themselves. The team that once dominated games through possession, structure and precision looked surprisingly unfamiliar.

Now, with the second leg at the Etihad Stadium still to be played, City will have the chance to respond on the pitch.

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