Man City told they’re not in that conversation’ for Premier League title after nine-goal thriller with Fulham | OneFootball

Manchester City secured a 5-4 win over Fulham in the Premier League at Craven Cottage on Tuesday.

The Cityzens were 5-1 ahead before the hour mark, but shipped three goals and needed a goalline clearance from Josko Gvardiol to prevent the hosts from grabbing a draw.

The result leaves City two points adrift of Arsenal, sparking debate over whether they can challenge Arsenal for the league title.

Pundit Alejandro Moreno believes they are not yet in the title race, given their performance against Fulham.

He told ESPN FC: “Beyond what we expect from Man City, you can sense that they are freaking out.

“They were nervous with the ball at their feet – unable to complete passes, clearing the ball anywhere, running away from pressure, and just hoping the time would run out.

“That is not the look of a potential champion.

“In my estimation, they are not in that conversation just yet, not unless we see some collapse from Arsenal that we haven’t seen so far.

“The way they closed out this match is far more important to me than the three points. They could not control the game properly, the way a champion team should.

“That doubt hangs around, and eventually it shows up again the next time you have to hang on for a result.”

City have conceded 16 league goals, nine more than Arsenal. They must tighten up their defence to mount a serious title challenge.

Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma needs support to prevent the opposition from scoring.

The heavy reliance on Erling Braut Haaland for goals appears to have diminished, particularly with Phil Foden’s form. Fixing the defence should be Guardiola’s next priority.

Man City face Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.