Man City are back in the race.

Arsenal have led the Premier League table for several weeks, but Manchester City are the ones truly considered by fans as title contenders.

By defeating Nottingham Forest on Boxing Day, Man City secured their sixth consecutive Premier League victory, extending their winning streak across all competitions to eight matches. Not only did this solidify their second-place position in the English football league, but "The Citizens" also sent a strong message about the return of a force that once dominated English football for many years.

After a forgettable 2024-2025 season – when Man City went trophyless for the first time since 2016-2017, the season when Guardiola first took over – many doubts were raised about the Etihad Stadium team's ability to maintain its status. However, what is happening now shows that Man City has not lost its identity, but is simply like a hibernating tiger, waiting to awaken and roar again, dominating the competition.

Despite being defeated by the underdog Al-Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16 last summer, as manager Pep Guardiola affirmed, the North American tournament helped Man City "shake off the fog." A fresh burst of energy was unleashed, and Guardiola and his staff rebuilt a positive training environment.

Man City are back in the Premier League race. Photo: MANCITY

The most noticeable thing about Man City right now is the impressive form of their squad. They are no longer dependent on a few individuals but are playing with high competitiveness, consistent intensity, and increasingly sharp control of the game. Late goals like Rayan Cherki's against Nottingham Forest show that Man City have rediscovered the character of a true title contender: patient, cool-headed, and extremely effective.

Guardiola revamped his coaching staff by adding two former Liverpool assistants, Pep Lijnders and James French, alongside inviting his former pupil Kolo Touré to join the tactical training. A Manchester City team full of energy, cohesion, and high motivation is clearly a major threat to any opponent. Currently, Man City is only 2 points behind league leaders Arsenal, a gap that can certainly be closed with the second half of the season still to go. Furthermore, both Arsenal and Aston Villa – two direct competitors – are under significant pressure regarding squad availability and fixture schedules.

Under Guardiola, Man City have repeatedly accelerated strongly in the middle and late stages of the season to take the lead and win the championship. Their experience, composure, and winning mentality are qualities not every opponent possesses. The race for the top spot in the Premier League is certainly still subject to change, but with their current form, Man City have shown they are fully capable of returning to the race with their familiar dominance.

Man City are entering a crucial phase with high spirits and a proven squad depth.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/man-city-tro-lai-duong-dua-19625122921461525.htm