Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged that he misjudged his initial strategy during their 0-0 draw against Southampton — a result that has complicated their chase for a top-five league finish. The stalemate at St. Mary’s ended City’s run of four straight Premier League victories and highlighted unexpected resistance from a side already relegated.
The Saints, despite sitting on one of the lowest points totals in league history, adopted an extremely defensive approach under interim boss Simon Rusk. Guardiola was caught off guard by the setup. Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester, the City boss said, “We can’t dictate what the other team does — we have to deal with that. And it’s on us to find solutions. I didn’t see it coming, and after about 10 or 15 minutes, I thought: we need wingers for this kind of match. We didn’t anticipate how the game would unfold.”
Early system fails to break through
City began the match in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Phil Foden and James McAtee playing advanced midfield roles. However, this configuration struggled to make an impact against Southampton’s deep defensive lines. The lack of width hampered City’s rhythm, leading Guardiola to make changes at the break.
McAtee was replaced by winger Jeremy Doku in the second half in an attempt to stretch the compact shape of the opposition. Although the adjustment improved City’s attacking play, it wasn’t enough to find a breakthrough. The draw leaves the team’s UEFA Champions League qualification hopes uncertain with only two league fixtures left.
The result also placed City among just four teams that failed to take all three points at St. Mary’s this season, joining Ipswich Town, Crystal Palace, and Everton.
Saints avoid infamous record as City look to salvage season
While Southampton remained at the bottom of the table, the draw brought their total to 12 points. That result means Derby County’s all-time low record of 11 points in a Premier League season, set in 2007-08, still stands.
Manchester City now face a critical week ahead. They will contest the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, a match that could bring silverware to a campaign otherwise marked as their poorest since Guardiola took charge in 2016. After that, City conclude their league schedule with a home clash against Bournemouth followed by a visit to Fulham. With Champions League qualification on the line, their margin for error has all but vanished.
