The problem is not just injuries. But the effect these injuries have had on what was a fairly weak squad to begin with.

Because of Europe, the team barely trains. Coupled with some players having to play 3 games a week due to no rotation (due to having no fit players), and other players being integrated into the team for the first time there is no cohesion, and not much left in the tank for the senior players to give.

Suspensions happen in football, so can’t begrudge Bruno to much- it’s not his fault his replacement is banned for a year!

For context, Newcastle were missing 12 senior players last night, and lost another half way through the first half. Man City would struggle with those kind of losses because nobody’s squad of 25 is stacked all the way down like that.

What about not having a transfer window? Buying and selling players can happen all year round between leagues.