Pep Guardiola Admits Title Hopes Could Be Over if Man City Lose to Liverpool
Manchester City’s Premier League title defense is hanging by a thread after a shocking run of five consecutive defeats. The reigning champions now face the daunting prospect of traveling to Anfield next week, potentially trailing league leaders Liverpool by eight points if Arne Slot‘s men secure victory over Southampton.
Pep Guardiola didn’t hold back in admitting that City’s chances of retaining the trophy could vanish with another loss. Speaking after City’s humiliating 4-0 defeat to Tottenham, Guardiola said, “Yes, in terms of Liverpool winning, winning, winning, it’s true. I don’t know what is going to happen, but the reality is here, and we have to win games.”
The manager acknowledged City’s precarious situation, adding, “People are saying it can’t get worse – but it can get worse. The exceptional things we have done over the last eight years are not eternal. I said how difficult it was to do the things we have done – and now people might believe me. We are a bit fragile right now, but we can’t run away. We have to face it.”
Tottenham Inflict City’s Worst Home Defeat in 21 Years
Tottenham heaped more misery on Guardiola’s side with a resounding 4-0 victory at the Etihad, marking City’s heaviest home loss since a 5-1 defeat to Arsenal at Maine Road in 2003. James Maddison celebrated his 28th birthday in style, scoring twice in the first half before Pedro Porro and Brennan Johnson completed the rout.
City’s collapse is unprecedented under Guardiola, who had never lost more than three consecutive games in his managerial career. Their current slump mirrors a dismal run last seen in 2006 when Stuart Pearce was in charge.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou praised his team’s performance, stating, “Today was about doubling down on our football principles. It’s a significant win. City have got an unbelievable record here at home. You don’t come to a place like this believing it is going to be as convincing as it was for us. City test you in every footballing way possible, and in all four areas, we got to a strong level.”
Man-of-the-match James Maddison reflected on the milestone victory, saying, “That’s a birthday I’ll look back on quite fondly. To come here to the champions and perform like that and get the result – you have to cherish these ones; they don’t come around often.”
Liverpool Clash Looms Large
The pressure now mounts on Guardiola and his squad as they prepare for a crucial Champions League tie against Feyenoord on Tuesday before the high-stakes showdown at Anfield. Reflecting on the task ahead, Guardiola admitted, “We are not used to being in this situation. There are many details we have to fix. We have to stand up and do it.”
If Liverpool claim victories against Southampton and City, they will open an 11-point gap, potentially ending City’s hopes of reclaiming the Premier League crown.
