EPL: Shearer Voices Concern Over Man City's Title Challenge and Guardiola's Frustration

Newcastle United icon, Alan Shearer, has emphasized that Manchester City’s vulnerable defense is a significant ‘concern’ in their pursuit of the Premier League title this season.

Shearer made these remarks while discussing Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s disappointment following the Cityzens’ 2-1 loss to Newcastle United in the Premier League over the weekend.

Guardiola’s team had a chance to reduce Arsenal’s lead in the Premier League standings to just one point ahead of Sunday’s North London derby at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Manchester City failed to secure even a single point, as two goals from Harvey Barnes led Newcastle to victory at St James’ Park.

The result leaves City in third place in the Premier League table, trailing leaders Arsenal by seven points.

“I can understand his [Guardiola’s] frustration because his team was well-beaten in that second half,” Shearer told Premier League Productions.

“They didn’t create many opportunities. He’s understandably upset right after the match; he’s witnessed his team lose in a challenging game. However, my concern would be the number of chances they are conceding, not any refereeing errors or bad luck.”

“If Newcastle had been more clinical, they could have scored six or seven goals – they squandered four clear chances. The ease with which they penetrated City’s defense is a greater worry for me.”

“They are certainly not the same team without the exceptional Rodri and the stability he provides in that squad.”

“My main concern would be their defensive performance. They will always find ways to score, especially with Haaland leading the attack, but defensively, they are clearly not as sharp as they once were.”