Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Manchester City would not “deserve” a spot in the Champions League if they fail to finish within the Premier League’s top five, but he remains confident that the team will secure qualification.
After a challenging season by their usual standards, City currently sit sixth in the league, trailing just behind Newcastle, Chelsea, and Aston Villa, all of whom are closely bunched with a game in hand.
This campaign marks the first time since 2017 that Manchester City will end without winning any trophies, a situation Guardiola described candidly. With the top five Premier League teams guaranteed Champions League qualification for next season, City’s position is precarious but not insurmountable.
Guardiola is determined to steer the club back into Europe’s elite competition and has set his sights on finishing at least third in the league.
Tuesday’s home fixture against Bournemouth will be an emotional one, as it marks the final home game for the club’s influential Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who is set to leave at the season’s end.
Guardiola emphasized that both he and De Bruyne share the same priority: securing Champions League football for Manchester City. The club has been a consistent presence in the competition since the 2011/12 season, and maintaining that status is crucial for everyone involved.
Guardiola also highlighted the importance of selecting the strongest possible lineup for the Bournemouth match, showing respect for De Bruyne’s remarkable career with the club. He praised the midfielder for his contributions and assured that De Bruyne will receive the recognition he deserves as City fight to close out the season on a high note.
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