Pep Guardiola has urged perspective following Manchester City’s first trophyless season in eight years, highlighting the club’s ongoing push for Champions League qualification as a mark of consistency amid fierce Premier League competition.
City were stunned by Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday, bringing a frustrating campaign closer to a disappointing end.
The club had already relinquished the Premier League title to Liverpool and exited the Champions League earlier than expected. Their only silverware came in the Community Shield, claimed on penalties against Manchester United in August.
Speaking after the defeat, Guardiola defended his squad’s efforts, stating:
“Except for Newcastle, who won the Carabao Cup, and Liverpool, who won the Premier League, we [Manchester City] are one of the few teams that actually lifted a trophy — the Community Shield. Others like Chelsea, United, and Spurs are hoping for something in Europe, but nothing is guaranteed.”
Guardiola’s comments come as City now sit sixth in the Premier League table, behind Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Tottenham.
However, they hold a game in hand — a critical Tuesday night clash away at Bournemouth — and need just four points from their final two matches to secure a Champions League spot.
City’s drop in form has triggered speculation about potential squad overhauls this summer, with Kevin De Bruyne set for a farewell appearance in the club’s final home game. Still, Guardiola insists the focus remains on finishing the season strong.
“We played a really good [FA Cup] final — not enough to win it — but the objective now is clear. Qualify for the Champions League and reset for next season.”
The Premier League top-five race remains razor-tight, with third-placed Newcastle and seventh-placed Nottingham Forest separated by just one point heading into the final week. City’s game in hand against Bournemouth on Tuesday (20:00 BST) could prove pivotal.
What’s Next for City?
- Tuesday: vs. Bournemouth (A)
- Sunday: Final round of Premier League fixtures
- Target: 4 points from 2 matches to clinch UCL spot
