It's not that their strength has declined that much.
At present, most people acknowledge the peak performance of Manchester City.
They rise to the challenge!
They have a fifty-fifty chance against anyone!
This is Manchester City!
But people have spotted Manchester City's biggest vulnerability—Deng Kai!
Manchester City without Deng Kai is like the West without Jerusalem!
With Kai, Manchester City is a top-four level team.
Without Kai, Manchester City seems only capable of fighting relegation.
And Deng Kai couldn't possibly maintain health and peak condition throughout an entire season.
Don't forget, last season Manchester City was competing on three fronts.
They gave up the league for this.
This season, they have the added matches of the UEFA Europa League.
Fighting on four fronts.
What will they have to give up this time?
If they don't give up the league, even sacrificing two cup competitions might not be manageable.
