Pep Guardiola has admitted he cannot promise Manchester City will be in contention for the Premier League title next season following a campaign that fell short of the club’s high standards.
City secured third place on the final day of the season with a 2-0 win at Fulham, ensuring their 15th consecutive qualification for the UEFA Champions League. However, it marked the end of an eight-year run with at least one major trophy, and their hopes of a fifth straight Premier League title were dashed as they finished 13 points behind champions Liverpool.
When asked whether City could mount a title challenge against Arne Slot’s side next season, Guardiola was cautious.
“I don’t know,” he responded. “I never imagined we’d win six Premier League titles in seven years. But if you think I’ll stand here now and say we’re going to win it next year, that’s not going to happen.”
The City boss acknowledged that this season’s total of 71 points fell well below the club’s usual standards.
“That’s a long way from what we’re used to. There are many reasons for that,” Guardiola explained. “Sport offers you another chance and we’ll try to prove ourselves again, but the truth is we’re far off Liverpool at the moment.”
Looking ahead, Guardiola expressed concerns over player fatigue, especially with the Club World Cup looming this summer.
“We’ll be exhausted going into next season without a proper break. If we’re not at our best physically, we won’t be able to compete for the big prizes. But if we are fit, we’ll give it a go.”
With Kevin De Bruyne set to depart and questions surrounding Jack Grealish’s future, speculation has mounted over a potential squad overhaul. But Guardiola suggested only minimal changes will be made.
“I don’t think we need a major rebuild,” he said. “We’ve got 24 players, and watching them train recently, I thought, ‘Wow, these guys are good.’ Some new faces may come in to strengthen areas where we’re weaker, but I’m not looking to bring in many.”
Guardiola added that any further changes would depend on individual players’ decisions over the summer.
“Some players might decide to leave if they feel they’re not getting game time. But that’s for the club to handle now. I’ve done my part by qualifying for the Champions League.”
