Manchester City's recent defeat to Aston Villa, marking their ninth loss in the last 12 games, has left Manchester Evening News readers expressing their disappointment. The Premier League champions' crisis seems to be deepening, with a 1-0 deficit at half-time exacerbated by John Stones' removal from the game.

Former City youth player Morgan Rogers added insult to injury by making it 2-0 in the second half, despite a late consolation goal from Phil Foden. This defeat sees Villa overtake City, moving into fifth place, and further results could see City drop even lower in the table.

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Our readers have shared their thoughts on the team's current state, the management, and what lies ahead.

One reader, MenTech saw a possible reason: "Few years ago, we invested a lot of money into our academy. The result? We have been producing the best young players in Europe but for other teams. The young man that run us ragged today was one of ours for years. Yet, Pep kept faith in players not delivering but letting go of some very good players. O'Reilly might be the next one to leave as he won't understand why Pep doesn't trust him, but happy to play a 34-year-old instead.

Manxxblue, voiced concern about the team's performance, stating: "That 2nd half performance was pitiful. Agree entirely with the comments re talent from the academy that we have allowed to leave over the last 5 years in particular and we really do need better focus here going forward, a lot better. It is what it is though, no point whinging and whining over it, similar to last few transfer windows which we know have been pretty poor to say the least.

"Massive job ahead which is clear to us all, let's not turn in to those across town and down the road though hey, we've seen a lot worse than this but no club has seen better, let's not forget that. Difficult times and this is where our support is needed the most."

Alanca comments: "City fans the problem is not difficult, we need a new coach with different tactic ideas. Pep has been good (I am a Bobby Manc fan) however time is enough. Every team in the PL know how to beat the superblues. It is easy, let City have the ball and possession then counter attack, not difficult even the bottom teams know how to do this. Only person that cannot see what we fans do is Josep Guardiola. Answer to the end of this season play a defensive and counter attack game, let the opposition have the ball. SIMPLE."

KINKLADZE believes: "We've become complacent, simple as, from the owners down to Pep, our system is dated and the players have been brain washed to play a certain way and other clubs have caught us up I'm watching it week in week out now enough is enough!

"The owners have penny pinched, we've made huge profits through revenue and player sales, yet we bring back Gundogen, who is past his best and sell Palmer and Alvarez, ageing players, dated tactics, lack of young talent and complacent owners have all contributed to this seasons poor form, we need a clear out of players, change in tactics and a defensive coach that can teach defenders to defend , think this season is one of survival and make top 4."

Kebabsalesman feels: "Bit like the dark old days at the moment, we just don't look cohesive going forward anymore, injuries have ruined any defensive stability, and the midfield is short on ideas, we need new energy, and creativity, and definitely fitter players who've a lot less miles in the legs. This side has done us proud for years, but their time has come to an end, and a new chapter needs to begin. I'm hoping Pep's the man to lead us into it, and build a Third team and take us to more glory."

What do you believe Manchester City need to do to reclaim the top spot? Join in the conversation.