Pep Guardiola has admitted that Manchester City’s title challenge this season looks increasingly difficult, describing it as “a season to survive” following a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace. City were unable to secure all three points at Selhurst Park, which leaves them trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by eight points, having played a game more. Despite the draw, Guardiola praised his players for their resilience, particularly considering the mounting injury problems that have affected the squad.
City were without several key players for the match, including Nathan Aké and Manuel Akanji, who were both sidelined due to injury. Rico Lewis, who had been filling in at left-back, was also forced off late in the game after receiving a second yellow card in the 84th minute, leaving City to play the final moments with 10 men. Lewis’ suspension means he will miss next weekend’s crucial Manchester derby at home to United, adding to Guardiola’s growing list of absentees.
City’s injury woes have been compounded by the absence of other regular starters, with Guardiola acknowledging that the team has been hit hard by both injuries and bad luck. Despite this, he expressed pride in the performance of his players, especially given the circumstances. “We cannot talk about the title race when we lose four games in a row and draw,” Guardiola said, reflecting on City’s struggles this season. “It’s a season to survive. Unfortunately, we are missing an important player for us this season for the next game against United at home, but in general what they have done in the circumstances is really good.”
Despite the disappointment of dropping two points at Palace, there were some positives for City. Erling Haaland continued his prolific form by scoring his 13th goal of the league campaign, which saw him level with Mohamed Salah at the top of the Premier League’s goal-scoring charts. Guardiola was quick to express his gratitude for the Norwegian striker’s impact, saying, “We are lucky we have him. We are so lucky we have him this season.” Haaland’s goal was a timely reminder of his importance to the team, especially as City continue to battle with their injury issues.
However, Guardiola was not entirely happy with City’s defensive display, particularly with regard to Palace’s second goal, which came from a corner. The team’s failure to deal with set-pieces has been a recurring theme this season, and the manager made it clear that he was disappointed by the manner in which they conceded. “We knew it from the beginning that we have been unlucky in many things,” Guardiola said, adding that despite the frustrations, the players’ efforts had been commendable.
The manager also expressed his appreciation for the contributions of several other players, particularly those who have been playing regularly despite the squad’s injuries. “We are so lucky we have Rico [Lewis], lucky we have Bernardo [Silva], [Ilkay] Gündoğan, all these players, Josko [Gvardiol],” Guardiola said. “All these players that all season have been playing and playing without rest. We are so lucky for these four, five, six players.”
Despite the setback at Palace, Guardiola’s focus now shifts to the upcoming matches, including the Champions League clash against Juventus in Turin. City are aiming to bounce back from their domestic struggles and put together a strong performance in Europe. But with the squad stretched thin and injuries continuing to pile up, Guardiola’s statement about this being a season to survive may prove to be an understatement if City are to keep their title hopes alive.
On the other hand, Palace manager Oliver Glasner felt that his side could have secured a victory against the reigning champions, especially after taking the lead twice during the match. “After having the lead twice, especially after 2-1, we got too passive,” he said. Glasner acknowledged the difficulty of defending against a team like City but suggested that his players could have been more proactive in the second half. “It’s not that easy against City. It’s not a criticism of the players, but when you’re in your own third it’s a matter of time. A gap of one yard, they find it with one or two touches.”
The draw leaves City in a precarious position as they look to regroup and address the injuries that have hindered their campaign so far. While Guardiola’s comments reflect a sense of realism, they also highlight the challenge City face in trying to stay competitive both domestically and in Europe. As the season progresses, City will need to dig deep and rely on the core players who have been carrying the team through difficult times.
