'Europa League' — Guardiola reveals harsh truth to Manchester City stars ahead of must-win clash

'Europa League' — Guardiola reveals harsh truth to Manchester City stars ahead of must-win clash

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 12:58 - 20.05.2025

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has warned his players of the possibility of playing in the Europa League next season.

Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Manchester City could end up in the Europa League next season.

However, the City boss remains confident his team will claim one of the Premier League’s top five positions.

Liverpool and Arsenal have already locked in two spots, with Arsenal defeating Newcastle 1-0 on Sunday.

Newcastle, Chelsea, and Aston Villa are tied on 66 points, while City, with a game in hand, sit in sixth with 65 points ahead of their home match against Bournemouth.

Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola Pep Guardiola (Credit: Imago)
Erling Haaland (L) of Manchester City gives the ball to Omar Marmoush (C) of Manchester City to take a penalty during Crystal Palace vs Manchester City FA Cup Final match at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture credit: Paul Terry Sportimage

“If we are not there [Champions League] then we don’t deserve it and will be in the Europa League. It is what it is,” Guardiola told reporters.

“I am thinking we are going to qualify. My thoughts and the way I think — I think that. We need four points. That is the main target. I am absolutely [confident of qualifying].”

Despite the tight race, Guardiola’s optimism reflects his belief in City’s ability to rise to the occasion and secure a coveted Champions League berth.

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