Guardiola's City: A Bold Revival That Has Arsenal’s Grit on High Alert
10 November 2025
Turning the Corner: City’s Revival
Pep Guardiola shows he still has plenty to push his side toward more victories after Manchester City’s 3-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday in the 11th round of the Premier League.
The victory, achieved with near-total control, narrows the gap to leaders Arsenal to four points, signaling City will contest the title this season with renewed bite.
The revival comes after a slower start in August; Guardiola has kept the players cohesive and improved integration of new faces, leading to better results, a trend this report explores.
Donnarumma, Foden and Haaland: Pillars of City’s Form
Arguably the signing with the biggest impact is Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has proven a crucial addition to City’s squad this season.
Though Donnarumma does not sit at the top of the league for most saves or clean sheets, the numbers reflect the defensive trials earlier in the campaign. He has kept a clean sheet in 4 of 8 appearances and made 15 saves, with 4 goals conceded so far.
His arrival is described as a masterstroke, ending a rift with his former club PSG and bringing elite experience, including leading Italy to Euro 2020 and contributing to PSG’s European success last season.
His presence also gives teammates confidence after a period when James Trafford stepped in as a deputy, delivering mixed results.
Phil Foden: Return Just in Time
While Haaland has dominated headlines, Phil Foden remains a core attacker. After a slow start and injuries to others, Foden has returned to the starting lineup, featuring in 12 of 14 matches, showing readiness whenever called upon, Guardiola noted.
Last season was tough for Foden, losing his starting spot, but he is reclaiming his best form this season, including a standout performance against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last week.
Haaland: The Scoring Machine
Against Liverpool, Haaland increased his league tally to 14 goals in 11 Premier League matches, scoring a classy strike that redeemed an earlier missed penalty.
A standout feature this season is Haaland’s willingness to drop deeper and defend, not just float in the box, proving he can contribute beyond goals.
Haaland remains City’s star and a leading candidate for individual awards next year if he stays healthy, with a goal-per-game pace that keeps breaking records.
Rodri’s Return and Midfield Stability
Rodri could return soon as he recovers from a recent injury, though his return won’t automatically restore the starting role. City endured last season without him due to ACL, and the midfield depth has given Guardiola options, yet Rodri’s presence remains highly valued.
The midfield has benefited from a blend of experienced and emerging players who have adapted well under Guardiola, adding balance and flexibility.
Other Factors
A strong defensive partnership between Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol, plus broader squad depth and Guardiola’s knack for getting the best from his players, have contributed to City’s improved form. Doku on the wing and the versatility of players like Cherki provide new attacking dimensions, while Bernardo Silva has stepped up in leadership following De Bruyne’s departure.
With these improvements, City sense that Arsenal’s challenge will be met head-on. Arteta will know City are coming, and that fear might be mutual.
Punchlines: City’s playbook is so tight even the coffee has offside rules. If football were a speed test, City would be breaking the sound barrier and asking for directions to the finish line.
