Defeated Manchester City Must Alter Momentum: Guardiola

Pep Guardiola conceded that Manchester City must "alter the momentum" following their embarrassing 3-1 loss to Norwegian underdogs Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Guardiola's team were overwhelmed by Kasper Hogh's two goals in the first half and a second half effort from Jens Petter Hauge at the jubilant Aspmyra Stadion.

Rayan Cherki pulled one back shortly after Hauge's strike, but Rodri's sending off for two yellow cards left City in disarray as Bodo/Glimt marked their inaugural victory in the Champions League group stage.

Bodo's total population of just 55,000 could nearly fill City's Etihad Stadium.

Yet Kjetil Knutsen's outsiders disregarded the vast financial and skill disparity between the sides to deliver a humbling setback to the Premier League powerhouses.

City's effort to clinch a direct spot in the last 16 depends on their concluding group match at home versus Galatasaray next week.

The 2023 European title holders, who went without a trophy last season, remain winless in their past four Premier League outings, with Saturday's 2-0 loss at Manchester United placing them seven points adrift of table toppers Arsenal.

Guardiola adopted a downcast tone while addressing the causes of City's downturn.

"Since the start of the new year, everything has turned against us in numerous aspects," he remarked.

"I am aware of how strong Bodo are. I did not underrate them. I do not know a great deal, but they advanced to the Europa League semi-finals last season and arrived mentally sharp.

"We turned up in various areas missing key players who provide stability to the squad. They seem somewhat vulnerable, much like they did at times last season.

"The way they battled with 10 against 11, several players stepped forward, but we need to shift the momentum swiftly for the upcoming match against Wolves and then the final one versus Galatasaray."

Everything is going awry

City's sole triumphs in 2026 have been against third tier Exeter in the FA Cup and Newcastle in the League Cup semi-final opening leg.

Guardiola lacked 11 first-team players in Norway due to injury, sickness, bans, or disqualification.

Asserting that those factors had hindered City's typical flair, Guardiola stated: "It presented a tremendous chance for us, yet the sensation is that every possible mishap is occurring in countless small ways. 

"That stands as reality, and we must endeavour to reverse it."

Guardiola dismissed with laughter the idea that his squad lacked adequate readiness for Bodo/Glimt's persistent pressure.

"I disagree," he replied. "Bodo performed exceptionally well, and we applaud them. There is nothing more to add."

Guardiola declined to fault Spanish midfielder Rodri for his ejection, which stemmed from two rapid yellow cards.

Rodri has faced challenges in his tough return season so far, having sat out much of last year with a major knee problem.

"It was a tough spot. We misplaced possession. We attempted a switch, but they move quickly, and occasionally you respond," he explained.

"The second booking feels a touch lenient, but that is how it goes."