Haaland scores twice yet sounds the alarm
Pep Guardiola said late concessions were not a concern, but a ninety minute penalty from Eric Dier earned Monaco a 2 to 2 draw and kept the question alive. Erling Haaland struck both City goals to reach fifty two in fifty Champions League games, then told broadcasters the display was not good enough. He felt City lacked energy after the break and did not deserve to win.
A pattern of late setbacks
City are unbeaten in six in all competitions, yet half of the eight goals conceded this season have arrived at the end of halves. Recent examples include a home defeat to Tottenham after a first half added time goal on twenty three August, a 2 to 1 loss at Brighton on thirty one August after an eighty ninth minute strike, a 1 to 1 draw at Arsenal on twenty one September with a ninety third minute leveller, and the Monaco draw on one October with the ninety minute penalty. Those moments have already cost City three league points and two more in Europe and they extend a run of five away Champions League matches without a win.
Guardiola perspective and outside views
Guardiola had played down the issue on Friday. After Monaco he noted many concerns in general. Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt urged calm on Match of the Day. He argued that even elite teams face dips. He backed City to challenge again once the squad is fit and in rhythm for the new year.
