Manchester City continue their winless run.

This was supposed to mark the beginning of City’s revival. The match against Everton at home kicks off a run that includes contests against Leicester, West Ham, Brentford, Ipswich, and an FA Cup tie against League Two side Salford City. 

All of these teams will face City as underdogs, but the way Everton handled Haaland and company has sparked hope that positive results are possible, regardless of the odds.

City’s aura of invincibility has been shattered, leaving behind an anxiety that has pervaded almost everything. 

When Silva missed a golden opportunity to make it 2-0 midway through the first half, Foden who made the pass spun around and screamed in frustration. 

On the touchline, Guardiola arched his back in exasperation. In the past, such minor setbacks would have meant little. 

Now, it feels like things are so challenging that City cannot afford to miss those chances. Foden and Guardiola seemed to understand this as well.

Jordan Pickford expertly saved Haaland’s penalty in the 53rd minute. The only other close call for Everton came from a Josko Gvardiol header that hit the post. 

Haaland’s penalty was his only shot on target and one of just 22 touches; he has now scored only one goal in seven Premier League games as a double Golden Boot winner. 

Even the typically composed Norway international appears to be suffering from self-doubt. 

Later, when a cross was lofted into the box, he headed back toward Foden instead of going for goal himself.

After the match, Guardiola discussed how his players were unable to “bounce back mentally” after the penalty miss. 

In contrast, Sean Dyche, his counterpart, acknowledged a different atmosphere surrounding the Etihad these days.

Guardiola can only hope that some of the eight senior players missing against Everton will return for City’s match against Leicester on Sunday. 

Furthermore, he is praying that the January transfer window can help address some of his problems. “The transfer window in the winter is not easy,” he said. 

“Even the players know that we need to add new talent. We have several injuries, and that is a concern. Sometimes it is difficult. We must try because this has been ongoing for a long time.”

Getting players back to fitness and bringing in a few new faces in January will help, but the larger challenge for Guardiola is to restore the confidence of a squad that has been battered and bruised by this unprecedented situation. 

While Sheikh Mansour’s financial backing can help fill some gaps in the dressing room, rebuilding the self-belief of his players may prove to be a tougher task.

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