Pep Guardiola conceded that Manchester City must focus on securing a playoff spot in February after their 2-0 defeat to Juventus, a result that severely dents their hopes of automatic progression to the Champions League last 16.
City’s struggles continued in Turin, where despite dominating stretches of the game, they were undone by familiar defensive lapses and wastefulness in attack. Josko Gvardiol’s errant clearance led to Dusan Vlahovic’s opener, and Weston McKennie sealed Juventus’s victory in the second half. The loss leaves City languishing in 22nd place in the 36-team table, with two games remaining against Paris Saint-Germain and Club Brugge.
A finish between ninth and 24th is now the most realistic outcome, allowing City to participate in a playoff round but adding two matches to an already demanding schedule. Falling below 24th would mean outright elimination. Guardiola was clear about the immediate goal. “It’s the target,” he said. “We need one point, three points. Go to Paris to try to do it, and the last game at home.”
Defensive Guardiola Praises Effort
Despite the defeat, Guardiola defended his team’s performance. Erling Haaland spurned their best opportunity in the first half, and City consistently probed the Juventus defense without finding a breakthrough. “We played good: really, really good,” he said. “We missed the last pass, the last action when we arrived, and we conceded chances in some transitions. It happens, but I am so proud of these players.”
This is an unprecedented period for Guardiola’s City, who have now managed just one win in their last ten matches across all competitions. When asked if he was questioning his approach, Guardiola acknowledged the difficulties but expressed faith in his methods. “Of course I question myself. I’m stable in good moments, bad moments. I try to find a way to do it. I’m incredibly honest: if we play good, we play good. Always the game will save us.”
Gündogan Highlights Confidence Issues
Ilkay Gündogan, one of City’s senior players, offered a candid assessment of the team’s struggles, pointing to a lack of confidence and composure in critical situations. “In crucial moments, at the moment, we are always doing the wrong things,” he said, attributing City’s lack of rhythm to what he described as a “mental issue.”
However, Guardiola pushed back on his captain’s view, maintaining that the team’s performances have largely been positive despite the results. “I’m not agreeing with Ilkay,” he said. “Of course it’s tough. Except one or two games in this period that were not good, the rest we played good.”
A Challenging Road Ahead
City now face a daunting trip to Paris Saint-Germain, where they must aim for at least a draw to stay in contention for a playoff berth. Their final group game against Club Brugge at home will likely be decisive in determining whether they can extend their Champions League campaign into the knockout stages.
While Guardiola remains optimistic, the task ahead is formidable. City’s patchy form, compounded by a congested fixture list, presents significant hurdles. For now, Guardiola and his players must focus on rediscovering their cutting edge and tightening up defensively to avoid further setbacks.
As the campaign enters its most critical phase, City’s resilience will be tested like never before under Guardiola’s tenure. Whether they can salvage their season in Europe remains to be seen, but the manager’s confidence in his squad suggests he believes a turnaround is still possible.
