Reijnders Admits Manchester City ‘Fragile’ After Bodo/Glimt Defeat

Tijjani Reijnders has acknowledged that Manchester City are currently “fragile” following their damaging 3-1 defeat to Bodo/Glimt in the UEFA Champions League, while firmly dismissing suggestions that Pep Guardiola’s side underestimated their Norwegian opponents.

City’s loss in the Arctic Circle continued a worrying run of form across competitions, with their only victories in the last seven matches coming in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. In the Premier League, Guardiola’s side have taken just three points from their last four outings, beginning with a 0-0 draw away at Sunderland on New Year’s Day.

Speaking to Sky Sports News after playing the full 90 minutes against Bodo/Glimt, Reijnders was clear that complacency was not a factor in the defeat.

“We never underestimated them,” the Dutch midfielder explained. “We knew they are pretty good at home on the artificial grass. We should have done much, much better, especially because we could have qualified for the top eight. Now it’s on the last game.”

Reijnders went on to deliver an honest assessment of City’s current struggles, pointing to a lack of consistency compared to previous seasons.

“At the moment, we are fragile. We aren’t consistent like we were before. It’s something we have to work on and get out of as quick as possible. The most important thing now is that we stick together as a group, especially in the tough moments, and keep doing the basics well.”

Conclusion

Manchester City’s defeat to Bodo/Glimt has underlined growing concerns around form and resilience at a critical stage of the season. While Tijjani Reijnders insists there was no underestimation of the opposition, his admission of fragility highlights the challenge facing Pep Guardiola as City approach a decisive final Champions League fixture and attempt to stabilise their domestic campaign.

FAQ

• Q: Did Manchester City underestimate Bodo/Glimt?
  A: No. Tijjani Reijnders insisted City were fully aware of Bodo/Glimt’s strength, particularly on their artificial home pitch.
• Q: How did Manchester City perform against Bodo/Glimt?
  A: City suffered a 3-1 defeat in Norway, continuing a difficult run of results.
• Q: What did Reijnders say about City’s current form?
  A: He admitted the team is “fragile” and lacking consistency compared to previous seasons.
• Q: What is at stake for City in the Champions League?
  A: Qualification for the top eight now depends on the final group-stage match.