In a dramatic turn of events at Molineux, Manchester City's previously unblemished Premier League record was shattered as Hwang Hee-chan's second-half goal sealed a surprising victory for Wolverhampton Wanderers against the reigning champions.
City manager Pep Guardiola, serving a one-match touchline ban, was a helpless spectator as his team struggled to assert their typical dominance, with prolific striker Erling Haaland limited to just one scoring opportunity.
Despite Julian Alvarez's magnificent free-kick equalising Ruben Dias' early own goal, it seemed City might emerge victorious. However, reminiscent of Pedro Neto's setup for the opening goal, Nelson Semedo's forward surge inspired Wolves to clinch their first win in seven encounters against City.
Pep Guardiola, speaking to Sky Sports after the defeat, emphasised the need for improved defensive performances and acknowledged the absence of Rodri, an important player. Regarding Mateo Kovacic's performance, Guardiola deemed it satisfactory but noted it was the first time he played in that position.
"There are ten players and they transition well," Pep said. "We were well set up but we did not defend properly these situations. They beat us in the one v one and that is not good and we have to do it properly.
"We have to do more but even when we win we have to do more."
The Spaniard brushed off suggestions of complacency, stating that winning titles and achieving success had not led to complacency within the team. "You have to ask other people what they think about that [complacency].
"When you win four Carabao Cups in a row and the Premier League and a Treble it is not complacency. Sometimes the players can do better than you and beat you and that is what you can do today."
When asked about watching the match from the stands, Guardiola humorously remarked: "The view is better."
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