Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has made a surprising admission, stating that his side “don’t have the squad” to be seen as favourites for Champions League qualification next season — despite the Premier League being guaranteed five spots in the competition.
Due to the strong European performances from English clubs across all UEFA tournaments this season, England’s top five are set to qualify for the Champions League in 2025. However, Guardiola remains cautious about City’s chances, pointing to persistent injury troubles throughout the campaign.
“It’s better to have five [spots] instead of four, especially with the situation we’re in,” Guardiola said during Friday’s press conference. “But there are seven contenders, and it will go to the last moment.
“We haven’t had the squad all season. Three of our defenders from the Champions League final are out, and our striker won’t return until the last few games. So no, we don’t have the squad.”
Guardiola confirmed that Nathan Ake, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji will miss Saturday’s clash with high-flying Crystal Palace. Star striker Erling Haaland is also sidelined with an ankle injury, not expected back until mid-May.
Still, Guardiola tried to strike a balanced tone. “The players are still injured — it’s been like this all season. We adapt. You can look at it as a problem or as a challenge. You might see our position as a disaster, but it could be worse.
“I’m proud of how we’ve coped. We still have a chance to qualify for the Champions League.”
As the season enters its final stretch, City sit sixth in the table — one point behind fourth-placed Chelsea and fifth-placed Newcastle, who both have a game in hand.
According to Opta’s supercomputer, City still have a 50% chance of finishing in the top five and securing Champions League football. Chelsea, meanwhile, are predicted to narrowly miss out. Aston Villa and Fulham are also still in the mix, adding further tension to the run-in.
