The drive to take Manchester City back to the top remains for Pep Guardiola | OneFootball

As Manchester City booked their date with Nottingham Forest at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final it was apparent that the drive remains for Pep Guardiola to take Manchester City back to the top. This season has been a battle for the City manager and his team. But watching Guardiola on the touchline yesterday his will to win remains strong. That stood out throughout Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium yesterday.

Watching Pep Guardiola on the touchline is almost as entertaining as the game itself at times. He wears his heart on his sleeve as he rides every challenge and moment with his team. But there appeared to be an edge to the display from Guardiola on the touchline yesterday. The FA Cup is his team’s last chance to claim silverware this season. Guardiola knew this and his celebrations for the goals that Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush scored illustrated this point. Even his celebration at the final whistle was full of emotion and relief.

But watching Pep Guardiola yesterday another fact stood out. He appears determined to lead his team back to the top. This season has been a shock to the system for everyone associated with Manchester City. Manchester City’s fall from the top has been stark. It wasn’t expected and that has made it even more jarring. But it’s clear to see that Guardiola is determined to guide his team back to the top of the game. There was no other conclusion to draw after watching his display on the touchline yesterday.

Summary.

That is positive news for Manchester City. A hungry Pep Guardiola is the most dangerous version of the City manager. When he is up for the fight his team follows him. That stood out yesterday and as Manchester City chase the FA Cup and Champions League qualification over the remainder of this season and build for the future next season it’s clear that Guardiola is ready for that fight. That’s an exciting proposition for Manchester City and could be a dangerous one for their rivals.