Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has described the current season as the most difficult of his managerial career.
The Spaniard has endured an underwhelming campaign with the former English Premier League champions, although they could still end up with a silverware at the end of the season.
Man City’s underwhelming season
The Cityzens began the campaign hoping to win a fifth straight league title after winning the last four, but struggled to continue their high standards.
Guardiola’s side were out of the title race early after a tough period between November and December, while they were also eliminated from the first knockout rounds of the UCL by Real Madrid.
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City recorded just two wins from 14 matches in all competitions between October and December, in the Spaniard’s worst-ever run as a top-flight manager.
What Guardiola said
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash at relegated Southampton, the former Barcelona manager said: “It’s been the most difficult [season], that’s for sure.
It’s been more demanding. Much more. When you don’t win it’s more demanding emotionally and preparing and the moods and everything. It’s been more difficult. It’s been more difficult than the previous seasons we played for the titles.”
The 54-year old who extended his contract until 2027 earlier in the season however insisted that his side will be back to challenge for the title next campaign.
“Every time we have to prove ourselves,” he continued.
“When I listened to the players who said what I’ve done in my career, I don’t have anything to prove. Completely wrong. They should retire. When it’s done, it’s done. So the people pay the tickets to come to the stadium to do it every time.
I had to prove myself again and again. And I’m disappointed in myself when it’s not going well. When I retire I will review my career. But right now, next game I have to prove myself. So life doesn’t live from memories”, Guardiola added.
What next for Man City?
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The Cityzens are in the race for a top-five finish which will be guaranteed if they win their remaining league games.
The 2023 treble winners also have a chance to salvage a disappointing season when they play Crystal Palace at Wembley on the 17th of May, with the FA Cup trophy on the line .
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
