'Quite obvious' why 2025-26 not same as last season

In 2024-25, Manchester City failed to win a major trophy for the first time in eight years, which Pep Guardiola put down to a lengthy injury list.

In addition to their defensive absentees, wingers Oscar Bobb and Savinho will be sidelined for a period of time while midfielder Mateo Kovacic is out long term.

The arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth for £65m is imminent, with the Ghana forward scoring the winner against Tottenham on Wednesday and Cherries manager Andoni Iraola confirming a deal is effectively done.

City have also stepped up efforts to sign defender Marc Guehi, though Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has said he will only sell his captain if the asking price is met.

Despite a lengthening casualty list, Guardiola has said the current situation is not the same as last season. Asked to clarify, he replied: "It's quite obvious.

"The way we played, and the energy we have. The energy and the way we play we create chances and expected goals... we just didn't put the ball in the net.

"We create incredible things with the way we defend and the game is in the boxes. We are concerned with the defence because we don't have players. The way we approach it is fantastic but unfortunately we don't score goals - that is my analysis of the past three games."

City host Exeter in the FA Cup on Saturday - that will provide a chance to put things right.

Or it could be an opportunity for the League One side to inflict a damaging defeat and send City's season spiralling.