Where last year the champions surrendered a lead just nine times in 38 Premier League matches - and not once between drawing at Nottingham Forest in February and winning the title in May - Saturday's game at Newcastle means it is already 10 times in 20 matches this season.
There is a sense around the league that Pep Guardiola's side may be more vulnerable after a summer of change at the Etihad, that there is no longer the air of inevitability and supremacy about them that means opponents accept defeat when they go behind. That has been shown by Crystal Palace coming from two goals down to earn a draw away from home, or Arsenal scoring late and decisive goals in both the league and the Community Shield.
This story is from the January 16, 2024 edition of Manchester Evening News.
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This story is from the January 16, 2024 edition of Manchester Evening News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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