Pep Guardiola Blames Himself After Manchester City’s Shocking Collapse in Derby Loss to United
Guardiola Takes Full Responsibility as City Suffer Dramatic 2-1 Defeat to Manchester United in the Premier League
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has taken full responsibility for his team’s shocking 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, December 15. The dramatic Manchester derby ended in heartbreak for City, as they let a late lead slip away to their rivals in the final minutes.
The match appeared to be heading in City’s favor when defender Josko Gvardiol scored in the first half, giving the home side a crucial lead in a tightly contested game. Both teams struggled to create clear chances, and it looked like Guardiola’s side would hold on for all three points.
However, the game turned in the final minutes. Manchester United equalized in the 88th minute after Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, and just two minutes later, substitute Amad Diallo stunned the Etihad crowd with a decisive winner. The loss leaves City with just one win in their last six Premier League games, a rare slump for the reigning champions.
Speaking after the match, Guardiola didn’t hold back as he admitted his own shortcomings. He said:
> “I am the boss. I am the manager. I have to find a solution. I am not good enough; it’s as simple as that. I am not doing well. That is the truth.”
Guardiola’s comments reflect the pressure mounting on him as City struggle to find form this season. The defeat to United marks the first time in Premier League history that a defending champion has led until the 88th minute before losing the game.
The loss drops Manchester City to fifth place in the Premier League table, with 27 points from 16 games—one of their poorest starts to a season in recent memory. This is also only the fourth time in 105 home league games under Guardiola that City have lost after leading at half-time. Remarkably, two of those losses have come against United.
In contrast, the win is a huge boost for United and their new manager Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils now sit in 12th place but are only five points behind City. For United, it was a statement victory that showed resilience and determination, as they fought back to snatch the game in dramatic fashion.
Guardiola now faces a crucial period as he looks to turn City’s season around. With mounting pressure and fans growing restless, the Spaniard must find a way to fix his team’s defensive frailties and inconsistent performances.
