The key to Manchester City’s success under Guardiola has been their consistency.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich head coach has rarely made wholesale changes to his squad between seasons, instead identifying key areas where improvement is needed and making reinforcements accordingly.

But while this has been their greatest strength en route to multiple titles, it could be seen as the reason for their recent problems, with Ferdinand suggesting “fatigue” among players who have contributed to City’s success could be playing a role.

In the summer they signed winger Savinho from Troyes and brought back midfielder Ilkay Gündogan from Barcelona.

Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin said before Wednesday’s defeat to Juventus that a major overhaul of the team was needed.

“It is worth considering how significant this time will be in the years to come,” Nevin said.

“Pep Guardiola’s dominance is over – at least for now. Manchester City will not be forgotten any time soon, but the run to be clearly the best of the best in Britain is over.”

“A transformation of monumental proportions is needed – and they know it.”

“How fast can this happen? Within two years is the answer, as Chelsea has shown with its recent ruthless clearance and restructuring plan.”