Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have long been known for their sharp and strategic play, often so dominant that even in difficult situations, they rarely seemed in danger of defeat.
However, those days of complete control appear to be over, as the reigning Premier League champions failed to hold onto their 1-0 halftime lead over Brighton & Hove Albion, eventually losing 2-1.
Erling Haaland got City off to a strong start, scoring his first goal in four weeks, but a Brighton equalizer from Joao Pedro and a first Premier League goal from Matt O’Riley handed City their fourth consecutive loss.
This now gives Liverpool the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table by five points if they beat Aston Villa later.
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Amid growing concern from the media and rival fans, City supporters—unused to such setbacks—believe they see a key reason for the champions’ current slump.
Kyle Walker, who seems to be past his prime, has shown signs of decline, especially highlighted during Euro 2024, and his performance against Brighton added fuel to that sentiment.
Social media reactions tonight reflect how his own fanbase perceives his current form.
Man City Fans Begin to Turn on Kyle Walker
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At 34, Walker is no longer in his prime. In previous seasons, his pace often compensated for defensive weaknesses, but at the start of the 2024/25 season, that advantage appears to be fading. Fans are making their feelings clear online.
Once considered one of the Premier League’s top right-backs, Walker struggled in this game, particularly on Brighton’s first goal, and won just one of three tackles.
As the final whistle blew, criticism from fans poured in. One blamed City’s summer transfer strategy, saying it hadn’t addressed such issues.
Others felt age was catching up with him, with one fan stating, “A 19-year-old is better at holding the line than Kyle Walker,” and another threatening, “I’m not watching another game again if Kyle Walker is starting.”
Another fan, noticing Walker’s absence in key moments, commented before Brighton’s late surge, “Walker’s gone missing last couple of minutes and Brighton have had two great chances as a result,” while another added, “Walker has been absolutely shocking this half.”
Fortunately for City and Walker, the international break provides a welcome respite. Both will have time to rest and regroup, and with a high-stakes match against Liverpool set for December 1, the timing couldn’t be better for the champions to refocus.
