There has been widespread glee at Manchester City’s fall from grace this season, much of it fuelled by jealousy.
Rival football fans revel in seeing successful clubs knocked off their perch, and City’s regression has triggered the worst in them.
However, it would be foolish to get too carried away given that City have already laid the foundations for their next wave of domination.
The winter transfer window was a statement of intent
No one expected Man City to be left with just a top-four finish and the FA Cup to play for before the end of February, but that is the scenario they face.
Injuries and a relatively old squad have hindered City this season, but they have already made significant moves to rectify matters.
Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, Abdukodir Khusanov and Nico Gonzalez were signed for a combined £180 million during the winter transfer window.
The club will likely make more significant moves this summer, and their squad will be noticeably different when the 2025/26 season starts.
Manager Pep Guardiola will be eager to prove a point, and it would be no surprise if normal service is resumed next term.
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What to watch
Shamrock Rovers versus Molde in the Europa Conference League. It could be a memorable night for the League of Ireland club.
