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Manchester City’s Premier League title challenge is facing renewed pressure following three consecutive defeats, while Tottenham Hotspur have been left with questions to answer after their disappointing loss to Leeds United.
According to a report by Sky Sports on Sunday, November 8, 2026, City's defensive mistakes and declining performances have allowed Arsenal to establish a six-point advantage at the top of the Premier League table.
Enzo Maresca enjoyed an impressive start to his tenure at Manchester City, winning his first seven league matches.
However, consecutive defeats against Aston Villa, Brighton and Nottingham Forest have exposed familiar weaknesses within his squad.
City's latest 3-1 defeat at the City Ground highlighted their defensive vulnerability, with individual errors contributing to all three goals conceded.
Josko Gvardiol was caught in possession before Nottingham Forest took the lead, while Marc Guehi struggled again and was substituted at half-time.
There are also concerns about City's midfield, with Enzo Fernandez and Elliot Anderson reportedly struggling against Forest's physical approach.
Ryan Yates and Xaver Schlager dominated important areas, raising questions about City's ability to compete in demanding matches.
Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to strengthen their position through defensive consistency. Mikel Arteta's side secured a 1-0 victory over Hull City, recording another clean sheet despite their ongoing struggles to produce goals.
The Gunners have conceded just twice in nine Premier League matches outside their 3-0 defeat against Brighton.
Their defensive strength has been particularly impressive with William Saliba still working towards full fitness.
Ezri Konsa has played an important role since arriving from Aston Villa for £55 million, providing stability alongside Gabriel. His performances have reduced the pressure on Arteta to rush Saliba back into the starting line-up.
Tottenham also suffered a setback after losing 1-0 away to Leeds United, ending their encouraging run of results under Roberto De Zerbi.
Spurs struggled to match Leeds' intensity and created very little in attack. Their attacking trio of Omar Marmoush, Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel failed to make the desired impact.
The controversial challenge by Jayden Bogle on Tel also attracted attention, with the Leeds defender escaping a booking despite a lengthy VAR review.
However, De Zerbi acknowledged his team's shortcomings, saying: "We didn’t play like a top team."
The defeat leaves Tottenham needing greater attacking consistency, with questions emerging over whether they should pursue another centre-forward during the January transfer window.
While Manchester City must address their defensive problems and Tottenham seek improvements in attack, Arsenal are continuing to demonstrate the consistency required to remain Premier League title favourites.