After yesterday’s disappointing 2-all draw with Crystal Palace Manchester City departed for Saudi Arabia to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup. As City arrived in Jeddah for the tournament does it give the treble winners a chance to regroup and recharge?
After another late collapse cost City all three points yesterday it does appear that the treble winners may need a circuit breaker to kick their season into gear. It seems that the City squad is second-guessing themselves and low on confidence. It is not a phrase or sight that is familiar with Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering side. But this season has seen the previous high standards of the European champions dip. Perhaps a chance to get away as a team and try and win another trophy to cap off a memorable 2023 is the tonic the champions need.
It isn’t panic stations yet for Manchester City. With plenty of football left in the season, there is time for Pep Guardiola and his side to turn it around. But with Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa setting the pace this season City does need to click into gear sooner rather than later.
Tuesday’s FIFA Club World Cup semi-final against Urawa Red Diamonds can’t come quick enough for the wounded champions. Given the short turnaround from yesterday’s disappointing draw at the Etihad, it could be the game and the setting required to snap Pep Guardiola’s side into gear. The AFC Champions League winners will be no push-over and keen to make their mark on the competition. But with what’s at stake for City it may inspire the squad.
The FIFA Club World Cup may have come at the perfect time for Manchester City. Another trophy for 2023 may provide the boost they need.
