These are your Manchester City evening headlines for January 1, 2023.
Akanji demands Man City defensive improvement
Manuel Akanji has insisted his Manchester City defensive teammates must improve after dropping more points at home against Everton.
City were in control for large portions of their New Year's Eve clash, but Everton scored with their only shot on goal when Demarai Gray found the top corner with a stunning finish on the break. Rodri had given the ball away uncharacteristically and Everton punished City in style, with the Blues unable to respond and find a winner.
Akanji, who started the game in central defence, admitted there was frustration in the squad after two more points were dropped, and laid down a challenge to his teammates to ensure such results are not repeated.
Cancelo treatment could highlight Man City's January transfer priority
There are 'no names on the table' when it comes to new Manchester City signings this month, dashing the hopes of fans who have remembered that the new year also sees the January transfer window open.
City are rarely active in January, unless it is to look ahead to the following season, like when they signed Julian Alvarez in 2022 or Gabriel Jesus in 2016.
There have been instances, though, when an opportunity arises and City abandon their preference to do their most important business in the summer, and make a move for a player to improve the squad immediately. Aymeric Laporte is a prime example.
Stones makes Man City 'must-win' title race admission after Everton draw
There was frustration and some negative energy in the Manchester City dressing room after their New Year's Eve draw with Everton, an 'emotional' John Stones has revealed.
City took the lead in the first half through Erling Haaland, but were punished by Everton's one shot on target following a defensive lapse when Demarai Gray found the top corner to earn the visitors a draw. A point leaves City seven points off Arsenal heading into 2023, and Stones said the dressing room mood reflected the missed opportunity in the title race.
And with much more difficult fixtures ahead, Stones admitted that there is no more room for error and that every game from now on is a 'must win'.
Read next:
