Manchester City dropped crucial points in their Premier League title challenge, held to a 1-1 draw by West Ham United at London Stadium. Despite dominating possession and registering 24 shots, City failed to secure a win.
The result leaves them nine points behind leaders Arsenal with eight games remaining-though City hold a game in hand. A pivotal clash against Arsenal looms at Etihad Stadium next month.
Pep Guardiola insisted the race is still alive: "No, it's not over-because we did not lose." He acknowledged City’s persistent lack of cutting edge in the final third, a flaw costing them across the season.
City have lost just once in 18 league matches but have squandered 10 points from winning positions. Once seen as unstoppable down the stretch, this version lacks its former aura. "The consistency that we had in the past, this season we didn't get it," Guardiola admitted.