Liverpool legend identifies Manchester City's biggest issue this season

Liverpool icon Graeme Souness has shared his typically blunt opinion on Manchester City’s current struggles, expressing surprise at the lack of true leaders in Pep Guardiola’s side.

Quote. "I’m genuinely surprised by what I’ve seen from Manchester City lately. This is a team of winners, but they look like they’ve lost confidence — something you don’t expect from players of this caliber.

Great players should rise above adversity. In moments like these, football demands a leader — someone who steps up and fights for the team. A real leader carries others, even those who are struggling. But I don’t see anyone in this City team taking on that role.

I expected every player to rise to the challenge, especially in the absence of key figures like Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Kevin De Bruyne. But the players who remain haven’t delivered."

• Read also: Is it just Rodri's absence? Key reasons behind Man City's struggles

Context. Pep Guardiola’s side is going through a genuine crisis, failing to win their last six matches. A crucial encounter awaits City as they face Liverpool, the current Premier League leaders, in their next fixture.