Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has delivered a sobering admission about the club's Premier League title defense, declaring their pursuit of a fifth consecutive crown effectively over. Speaking candidly to Eurosport, the 24-year-old reflected on a season that has fallen below the high standards set by Pep Guardiola’s side in recent years.

City’s latest setback came in a 2-2 draw against Brentford, where Foden’s brace wasn’t enough to secure all three points. It marked the 11th time in 21 matches this season that the reigning champions have dropped points—a stark contrast to last season’s dominance, where they only failed to win 10 matches across the entire campaign en route to the title.

“The title? Yeah, yeah, it’s done for sure, it’s done,” Foden admitted when asked about their current standing. “We know. We’re not stupid. So we’ve got to aim for top four, that’s the next target now, and then obviously Champions League as well. So it’s not as if the season has gone.”

Foden’s candidness underscores the reality for Manchester City, who now sit in sixth place with 35 points, trailing fourth-placed Newcastle by three points and a formidable 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool.

A Season of Struggles: Where Did It Go Wrong?

City’s troubles this season can be attributed to a combination of factors. Defensive lapses, inconsistent form, and a failure to capitalize on key moments have left Guardiola’s team playing catch-up in a fiercely competitive league. While their possession-based style and tactical brilliance remain evident, the clinical edge that defined their recent title-winning campaigns has been conspicuously absent.

Yet, all is not lost. As Foden pointed out, the Champions League and domestic cup competitions remain in play. For a team of City’s caliber, success in these arenas could salvage what has been a frustrating season in the league.

A Shift in Mentality

Foden’s comments also signal a shift in mentality for a club unaccustomed to relinquishing its dominance. Aiming for a top-four finish might feel like a step down for the blue half of Manchester, but it reflects a pragmatic approach to what is still achievable this season.

For City’s loyal fans, the disappointment is palpable, but so too is the hope. The Premier League has seen remarkable turnarounds before, and while the title may seem out of reach, a strong finish could reinvigorate the squad and set the stage for future campaigns.

What Lies Ahead

This weekend’s trip to Ipswich Town presents an opportunity for City to steady the ship and reignite their momentum. Beyond that, the focus will be on consolidating a top-four position and mounting a serious challenge in Europe—a competition that Guardiola and his players are desperate to conquer.

As City recalibrates its ambitions, Foden’s words serve as a reminder that even the most dominant teams face challenges. It is in these moments of adversity that champions are truly forged. Whether City can rise again remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the road ahead will be anything but dull.