Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is confident his side will secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League by finishing in the top-five this season.
The former League champions are currently sixth and are currently in a tussle with four other teams to finish in the UCL spots, heading into the final match-week of the season.
What Guardiola said
“If we are not there [Champions League] then we don’t deserve it and will be in the Europa League. It is what it is,” Guardiola told reporters ahead of Tuesday’s home game against 11th-placed Bournemouth.
“I am thinking we are going to qualify. My thoughts and the way I think — I think that. We need four points. That is the main target. I am absolutely [confident of qualifying].”
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City’s disappointing campaign continued last weekend when a first-half strike by Eberechi Eze, condemned them to a 1-0 defeat against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final.
Guardiola however has emphasized that his side are focused on the next game against Bournemouth on Tuesday.
“We played a really good final, not enough to win it. And we have the last two games, we need four points to next year to be in the Champions League. This is enough, and everyone has to be aware of that,” Guardiola continued.
“We want to win the game so we can qualify for the Champions League next season – this is what Kevin wants, it couldn’t be otherwise.”
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Will Man City qualify for the UCL?
The Cityzens have their fate in their own hands and must win at least one of their remaining two matches, against Bournemouth and Fulham.
A win against the Bees on Tuesday will see them needing just a point to secure a top-five finish, sufficient enough to represent England in next season’s elite club competition.
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.
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