Breaking down the low block is still a work in progress for Manchester City | OneFootball

Manchester City have played out three draws in their past four games in all competitions. Pep Guardiola’s side has drawn with Inter Milan and Arsenal, beaten Watford and drawn with Newcastle over those four games. Inter Milan, Arsenal and Newcastle have employed a low defensive block to frustrate the world champions. What those games have shown is that breaking down teams that defend deep is still a work in progress for Manchester City.

Teams that defend deep in their own half isn’t a new tactic for Pep Guardiola’s side to face. It is often seen at the Etihad when teams visit the home of the Premier League champions. It makes sense for teams to employ this tactic against the world champions. There aren’t many teams that can take Manchester City on at their own game. But what’s stood out over three of City’s past four games is just how successful teams have been in frustrating Pep Guardiola’s side.

There have been several factors that have aided the cause of Inter Milan, Arsenal and Newcastle. First of all bad luck and inspired keeping performances have frustrated Manchester City. Ilkay Gundogan missed two late chances against Inter. David Raya and a determined Arsenal defence frustrated City for almost all of the second half for City’s 2-all draw with Arsenal. City’s midfield wasn’t at their creative best against Newcastle. Nick Pope also made some crucial saves late in last weekend’s 1-all draw. These things happen and are part of the game.

Manchester City have also missed the game-breaking ability of Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne. There’s little doubt that the pair are two of Manchester City’s most creative midfielders. When they’re at their best they are almost the key that unlocks a low defensive block. Ilkay Gundogan is yet to return to his best since returning to Manchester City. He is another player who can unlock a packed defence. If and when those three players return to their best it should see Manchester City have more success against the low defensive block that has frustrated City in recent weeks.

There are also several other players who can help Manchester City breakdown their opponents stubborn low blocks. The ability and wizardry of Jeremy Doku and Savinho could become key for the City over their next two games. The same can be said for Jack Grealish and his ability. Manchester City have the tools to unlock their opponents defence. They also have Erling Haaland who when double marked provides space for his teammates to thrive. The options are there at Pep Guardiola’s disposal to crack the code that has frustrated City over three of the past four games.

Manchester City’s inability to breakdown the low defensive block employed by Inter Milan, Arsenal and Newcastle isn’t yet a cause for concern. There have been mitigating factors that have caused City to be frustrated at times. It is still only early in the season and it does appear that it is only a matter of time before everything clicks for Manchester City. Tonight’s Champions League clash with Slovan Bratislava could be the ideal opportunity for City to break the shackles. The answer to that will be known when we get a glimpse of Slovan Bratislava’s tactics when the two teams face off later tonight.