In a dramatic turn of events, Manchester City suffered a significant setback in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League, falling 0-2 to Bayer Leverkusen at the Etihad Stadium. The loss marks Manchester City's first defeat of the season in the Champions League and ends their impressive 23-game unbeaten home streak in the competition. This defeat also highlights the tactical risks taken by Pep Guardiola, who made a staggering 10 changes to his starting lineup, a decision that ultimately backfired.
Bayer Leverkusen, known for their resilience and well-organized play, dominated the match from the start. The visitors took an early lead with a goal from Alejandro Grimaldo, who capitalized on a defensive lapse by the hosts. The second goal came from Patrick Schick, further solidifying Leverkusen's lead and leaving Manchester City with no hope of a comeback. The victory moves Leverkusen to within two points of Manchester City in the group standings, adding more pressure on the English side to secure their place in the knockout stages.
The match also marked a historic moment for Pep Guardiola, as it was his 100th Champions League game in charge of Manchester City. Despite the disappointing result, Guardiola acknowledged that his team selection was a significant factor in the loss, and he took full responsibility for the outcome. The much-changed lineup, which consisted of fringe players and young talents, struggled to keep up with the pace and intensity set by Leverkusen. The lack of cohesion and experience in key positions was evident, and the visitors capitalized on these weaknesses.
Manchester City's squad issues were made apparent in the loss to Leverkusen. The absence of key players due to injuries and suspensions forced Guardiola to make drastic changes, and the team paid the price. The defeat serves as a reminder of the importance of depth and continuity in a squad, especially in a demanding competition like the Champions League.
The performance of both teams was a stark contrast to their usual form. Leverkusen, who have often been considered underdogs in the group, showcased a level of determination and tactical discipline that caught Manchester City off guard. The German side's aggressive pressing and quick transitions on the counter-attack left City's defense exposed and struggling to cope.
In conclusion, Manchester City's 0-2 loss to Bayer Leverkusen was a wake-up call for the English side. The defeat not only ends their unbeaten home streak but also highlights the importance of squad depth and consistent performances. Pep Guardiola's gamble with a much-changed lineup backfired, and the team will need to regroup and refocus as they continue their Champions League campaign. The loss also underscores the resilience and tactical acumen of Bayer Leverkusen, who demonstrated that they are a formidable opponent capable of challenging top teams on any given night.
