Pep Guardiola rubbishes “toughest battle” claim in stern reminder of Manchester City’s success amid top four chase | OneFootball

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has sent a timely reminder to his critics about the unparalleled size of his side’s achievements over the years.

The Spaniard is set to enter the business end of the season as fifth-placed City look to secure a top four Premier League finish as a consolation following a drab campaign.

City reached the FA Cup semi-final for a record seventh consecutive season after coming from behind to win 2-1 against Bournemouth on Sunday.

However, the going gets tougher for Guardiola and co as City confirmed on Monday that striker Erling Haaland is set to spend some time on the sidelines after coming off against Bournemouth with an ankle injury that saw him leave the Vitality Stadium on crutches.

City are already missing Ballon d’Or winner Rodri and Oscar Bobb – both nearing a return to first-team action – as well as centre back trio Nathan Ake, John Stones and Manuel Akanji.

The reigning English champions have endured a difficult season, with Liverpool set to win the Premier League title to make it the first time since 2020 City haven’t finished first in the league.

The FA Cup remains the sole shot City have at winning silverware this season after exiting the UEFA Champions League and Carabao Cup to Real Madrid and Tottenham respectively.

Ahead of a Premier League meeting with Leicester City in midweek, Guardiola was asked whether the ongoing top four race is toughest battle he has faced during his managerial career.

“Don’t tell me about the toughest battles – we’ve had much tougher battles in the past than this one. When you have to win 16 or 17 games in a row to win the Premier League, don’t tell me it’s not a tough one,” Guardiola said in a statement of intent and crucial reminder of City’s trophy accolades since 2017.

A successful FA Cup run and a place in the Premier League top four would represent a strong finish to what has otherwise been a poor season for City, albeit by their own high standards they’ve set for themselves over the years.