Coach Pep Guardiola admitted his concern that Manchester City will not qualify for the Champions League next season. The Citizens have participated in the Champions League for 14 consecutive seasons and the absence will cause serious financial consequences.
The Etihad team is currently 7th in the Premier League, 4 points behind 4th-placed Nottingham Forets. The fifth place could secure a place in the Champions League, with UEFA giving two leagues an extra spot based on their country's achievements in all European competitions this season. However, Guardiola has made his concerns clear as he prepares for the away trip to Everton.
"Man City are the only team to have qualified for the Champions League consecutively in 11 or 12 years. But now we are having a hard time, we have to win, pick up every point. Otherwise, Man City will not qualify for the Champions League next season.
If we can't participate in the Champions League, it's simply because we don't deserve a place in this tournament. We are not prepared well, so it brings many problems" - the Spanish strategist said.
Guardiola's concern is not necessarily unfounded. In fact, they are currently only 2 points ahead of the 10th Premier League. If they do not improve their performance soon, The Citizens could be completely eliminated from the race in the top group.
In the history of the Premier League, many big teams such as Liverpool, Man United or Chelsea have fallen into a similar situation. Therefore, there is no guarantee that Man City will not fall into this dead end, especially with their current form.
Of course, Man City can qualify for the Champions League next season by winning the championship this year. However, their first challenge is to reach the round of 16 while currently ranked 22/36.
The Etihad team is currently experiencing the worst streak of matches in 21 years in the team's history. However, Guardiola is still receiving support from President Khaldoon al‐Mubarak, despite Man City having won just one of their last 12 games in all competitions.
"I felt incredibly supported. The Chairman and I understand that if something goes wrong, we will make a decision together. But so far, everything has been positive," Guardiola added.
