Manchester City started the season on a positive note but their performance against Tottenham at the Etihad has quickly inspired doubt
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has called for patience after his side slipped to a 2-0 defeat at home to Tottenham, their first loss of the new Premier League campaign.
Brennan Johnson put Spurs ahead midway through the first half after clever work from Richarlison. Just before the break, an error from goalkeeper James Trafford gifted Joao Palhinha a second, leaving City with too much to do.
It was a subdued attacking display from Guardiola’s side, particularly in the second half when they created little and finished with only 0.39 expected goals. However, Guardiola feels his side may be judged a little too harshly.
“I had the feeling the performance was a little bit better than the result,” said Guardiola. “We started well. We conceded a goal, that can happen, but we missed the simple things with the ball.”
City had started the season on a highly positive note, defeating Wolves 4-0 at Molineaux to top the league table at the first weekend. However, their second consecutive loss to Tottenham at the Etihad has quickly sowed doubts about their ability to challenge for the title this season.
Guardiola said: “The result is not good, but there is a long, long way to go in the season and we will learn from that.
“It’s just the second game. The last game, against Wolves, the people said everything is fine, but it’s just the first game, many things are going to happen. It’s the same now.
“I know the way we’re working, what the players are doing, the many good things I have. It’s step by step until we click. The connections in many things are new.”
