Boxing Day frustration for Guardiola, Haaland as Everton hold firm at Etihad

Manchester City’s struggles continued with a 1-1 draw against Everton, extending their wretched run to just one win in their last 12 games across all competitions.

City took the lead through Bernardo Silva’s deflected effort, but Everton equalized with Iliman Ndiaye’s thunderous half-volley just before half-time.

The hosts were given a golden opportunity from the penalty spot but Erling Haaland saw his effort saved by Jordan Pickford.

Manager Pep Guardiola waited until the 75th minute to make his first substitution, bringing on Kevin De Bruyne for Jeremy Doku. Still, Everton’s resolute defence stayed strong amid endless pressure.

The draw leaves City sixth in the table, still in search of a first win since November’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

Everton, meanwhile, are now 15th in the standings, having lost just one of their last seven games.

There seems to be no end to Guardiola’s worries as Nathan Ake was again forced off at half-time with an apparent hamstring issue.

City will hope to bounce back when they face Leicester City.