In a refreshingly candid interview, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has opened up about what he considers a below-par season for the Sky Blues, admitting he hasn't met his own high standards this term.
Despite the disappointment, the future remains bright at the Etihad. The gaffer, who penned a two-year extension in the fall of 2024, committing his future until the end of the 2026-27 campaign, will undoubtedly be looking to bolster his squad in the upcoming transfer window.
While the 2023 treble winners might not have replicated that dominance this season, a noticeable shift in form since April has seen City find their groove at a crucial juncture. This resurgence culminates in a mouthwatering FA Cup final clash against Crystal Palace at Wembley this Saturday.
Speaking frankly about the challenges faced, Guardiola stated, "It has been more demanding. Much more. When you don’t win, it’s more demanding emotionally and preparing and the moods and everything. It’s more and more difficult."
He went on to emphasize just how taxing this campaign has been, declaring, "It has been more and more difficult than the previous seasons that we played for the winning of titles." When directly asked if this has been the most demanding season of his illustrious managerial career, Guardiola didn't hesitate: "It’s been the most difficult, yes. That’s for sure."
The Catalan tactician pointed to a combination of factors contributing to the difficulties. "We had a lot of injuries. We didn’t have the energy. We tried most of the time, but we were not able to do it. I didn’t find a way to let them feel comfortable in winning games that helped us to win more games to be there."
However, ever the pragmatist, Guardiola acknowledged the cyclical nature of success. "But at the same time, it’s happened. You cannot win all the time in your career. Accept the reality like the normality that is life, and learn, and improve."
Reflecting further on the season, Guardiola highlighted the pressure to maintain the incredibly high standards City have set in recent years. Speaking prior to the recent draw against Southampton, he elaborated, "We didn’t win one game, for many months we weren’t able to win a lot of games. It’s demanding and we didn’t win. With this business, you have to win games. Otherwise you cannot be here next time."
Despite the setbacks, Guardiola praised the unwavering spirit of his team. "We represent people and a club that you have to do your job as best as possible, and this season we didn’t do that. We were in a high standard and we dropped. Even with that, I would say it could be worse."
Drawing perspective from the club's achievements, he added, "Just look at the history. Even with that, we were not good, I was not good to find a way, but we didn’t give up. That’s why we are here. We’re still fighting to qualify for the Champions League – that is a big, big, big prize. Everyone has to admit that and even in the final of the FA Cup."
Guardiola also reminded everyone of the silverware already secured. "And we won the Community Shield at the beginning of the season against (Manchester) United. We won one title, we fight for the second, and qualifying."
In a final, honest assessment, Pep concluded, "In terms of results after that, I said OK, it’s not been good, I know. But it could be worse! Still, we were there. I was there. The players were there. Not our best, but we didn’t give up."
While acknowledging the difficulties, Guardiola's words also hint at the resilience and determination within the Manchester City camp. With an FA Cup final on the horizon and Champions League qualification still within reach, the season isn't over yet, and you wouldn't bet against Pep and his team finishing strong.