Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City suffered a humiliating 3-1 Champions League defeat to Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the Arctic Circle, triggering fresh doubts about their form in 2026. The loss marked City’s first European defeat of the year and extended their winless Premier League run since January.
Former striker Chris Sutton described it as an “embarrassing night”, warning City risk slipping into the play-offs if they fail to beat Galatasaray in their next group game.
Historic night for Bodo/Glimt
Bodo/Glimt claimed the first Champions League victory in their history, stunning the 2023 winners at a freezing Aspmyra Stadion. The club, based in a town of just 55,000 people, has risen rapidly from Norway’s second division to become domestic champions four times in six years.
Their triumph was even more remarkable considering the financial gap. Bodo/Glimt reported revenues of £52m (2024), compared to City’s massive £694m (2025).
“They didn’t just beat City, they pummelled them,” Sutton said. “This was no fluke. They deserved it.”
Injury crisis hits Guardiola hard
City travelled to Norway without eight injured players, suspended captain Bernardo Silva and ineligible new signing Antoine Semenyo. Guardiola was forced to name his youngest-ever Champions League XI, with four players aged 21 or under.
Defender Max Alleyne, recalled from Watford, struggled on his European debut and was at fault for two goals.
Haaland’s worrying goal drought
Star striker Erling Haaland endured a forgettable night in his homeland. The Norwegian has now gone a month without an open-play goal, scoring just once – from the penalty spot – in his last eight matches.
Guardiola also raised eyebrows by playing Haaland for the full 90 minutes, despite calling for players to get 72 hours rest between matches.
Rodri suspension adds to woes
Midfielder Rodri will miss City’s crucial clash against Galatasaray after being sent off for two quick yellow cards. His dismissal killed any chance of a comeback in Bodo.
“We have to move forward,” Guardiola said. “Since the new year, many things are going against us. But I know how good this team is. We must change the dynamic quickly.”
With back-to-back defeats and mounting pressure, City now face a defining period in their season – starting with must-win games against Wolves and Galatasaray.
Discussion about this post