Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shown resilience as he reflects on his team’s most challenging run of results since 2018. A 4-1 Champions League defeat to Sporting in Lisbon marked City’s third consecutive loss, a rarity under Guardiola’s leadership. Although he disagreed with captain Bernardo Silva’s description of the club being in a "dark place," Guardiola acknowledged that words offer little comfort after such a defeat.
Refusing to back down, Guardiola embraced the challenge ahead. "We knew it would be a tough season from the start," he said. "I love this. I want to face it head-on and uplift my players. Giving up is not an option."
City’s current injury situation is compounding their struggles. Guardiola had to rely on Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, FA Youth Cup-winning captain, who made his first start just after his 19th birthday. Key defenders John Stones and Ruben Dias were absent, Nathan Ake remained on the bench, and right-back Rico Lewis filled in for captain Kyle Walker. Kevin De Bruyne was used sparingly, and defensive midfielder Rodri remains out for the season.
Guardiola compared this season to his debut campaign in 2016-17, when City faced inconsistency, eventually finishing third after an impressive late-season rally. "It happened in my first year," he said. "Sometimes that’s just football. We all go through tough times. But we’re still alive in all competitions and will keep pushing forward."
As City prepares for a tough away game against Brighton on Saturday, Guardiola is eager to break the streak. Bernardo Silva reflected on the team’s form, calling it a "dark place" but also noting that they remain well-positioned in both the Premier League and Champions League. "We’re still fighting for everything, but we need to improve. It’s not good enough at the moment."
City currently sits second in the Premier League, two points behind Liverpool and in a strong position in the Champions League standings. Despite the recent setbacks, Guardiola and his team remain focused, determined to regain their momentum.