Liverpool are 8 points clear at the top of the Premier League after 8 games, the largest points lead at this stage of a season in the competition’s history. After 8 games last season, Liverpool, Chelsea and Man City were all tied at the top on 20 points, the Reds have bettered last year’s tally by 4 points. So why have Man City fallen so far off Liverpool’s pace? Pundits have chalked their disastrous start up to Aymeric Laporte’s injury. However, the Citizens are missing much more than Laporte, Man City are missing Vincent Kompany.
The 33 year old centre back is one of Man City’s most iconic players. He won 4 Premier League titles in 11 years with the Blues. Over the summer the big Belgian returned to Anderlecht as player manager. He has since relinquished his managerial duties due to the club’s worst ever start to a top flight season.
The absence of Vincent Kompany from the City dressing room is evident. For the first time in years, the Etihad side look fragile both physically and mentally. Pep Guardiola’s side are desperately missing the calming influence of their stalwart captain. You just have to look at his title winning goal against Leicester last year to see that Man City are missing Kompany.
The Belgian offered the side experience and leadership. At a time when the City back line has been rocked by injuries and they have suffered 2 shock defeats this season, they are crying out for a captain to step up and take control of a faltering side. Sadly for Pep Guardiola, there is no replacement for the Belgian currently at the club. Until they sign another leader or one steps up, Man City will be missing Kompany.
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