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After a commanding 3–0 win over Al Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was visibly energized. “It’s a long, long time since we played like that,” he told reporters post-match. The quote has reignited one big question: Are Manchester City back to their best?
⚽ Dominant Display
City looked like their treble-winning selves:
Possession-heavy football
Fluid attacking patterns
A rejuvenated Kevin De Bruyne pulling the strings
And a confident Phil Foden finding the net again
Against Al Hilal, City registered 68% possession, completed over 700 passes, and kept a clean sheet without breaking a sweat.
🧠 Pep’s Tactical Shift
This wasn’t just vintage City—it was tweaked. With Rodri sitting deeper and De Bruyne drifting wide to stretch play, Guardiola’s men looked fresh, flexible, and dangerous. After a rocky finish to the 2024–25 Premier League season, this was a statement.
🧨 Key Performers
Phil Foden: Goal and assist.
Rico Lewis: Starting at right-back, flawless in buildup.
Erling Haaland: Though he didn’t score, his movement opened up the pitch.
🚑 Injuries & Form Turnaround
City’s late-season form dipped due to fatigue and injuries to key players. But now, with De Bruyne fit, Haaland rested, and new signing Savinho offering width, the reigning European champions look ready to reclaim dominance.
🔜 Next Up
Manchester City will face Juventus in the quarterfinals—a real test of whether this resurgence is sustainable or simply a one-off spark.
🗣️ Final Word
City’s display sent a clear message: underestimate them at your peril. If Guardiola’s side continue to play with this intensity and precision, they’re not just back—they might be better than ever.
