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Analysis: Arsenal 5-1 Man City

Erling Haaland looking dejected
[Getty Images]

Manchester City's alarming habit of crumbling was on show again. Just as against Paris St-Germain in the Champions League last month, four second-half goals were conceded in an extraordinary collapse at Arsenal.

This was a side who won an historic fourth successive Premier League title last season. Has an elite team's form ever fallen off a cliff to such an extent?

City had brief hope when Erling Haaland equalised, but their demise was embarrassing once Arsenal quickly restored their lead, manager Pep Guardiola looking nonplussed and powerless in his technical area.

The injury to Rodri in the first meeting between these two clubs in September, which ruled the world-class midfielder out for the season, is understandably cited as a pivotal moment in the season - but it does not explain the sheer scale of City's capitulation both at home and in European competition.

City were shambolic in the closing half hour, Arsenal threatening to score every time they went forward and the final whistle a merciful release from the beating being inflicted on them.

They face holders Real Madrid in the Champions League play-offs for place in the last 16. On this evidence, Kylian Mbappe and company will be licking their lips in anticipation.