Pep Guardiola has opened up about how missing out on the Champions League knockout stages for the first time in over a decade has sparked a new wave of determination within him. The Manchester City manager admitted that having to watch the competition unfold on television rather than being part of it has served as a powerful reminder of what the club needs to fight for. Speaking ahead of their upcoming match against Everton, Guardiola confessed that the experience has pushed him to aim even harder for a return to the Champions League next season.
City were knocked out by Real Madrid in the play-off round back in February, marking a rare early exit and the first time since the 2012–2013 season that they failed to reach the round of 16. For Guardiola, it was also the first time in his managerial career that he didn’t make it past the group stage. Despite the setback, he said he’s found the recent Champions League action—featuring the likes of Arsenal, PSG, Barcelona, and Inter Milan—both entertaining and motivating. Watching those teams reach the semi-finals reminded him of the high level his side needs to strive for.
Guardiola made it clear that failing to qualify is not an option, stating that the battle to finish in the Premier League’s top five is now more important than ever. A fifth-place finish this season would guarantee City’s return to the Champions League for a 15th consecutive year. Currently sitting in fifth with just six games left, City are hanging on by a single point ahead of rivals Chelsea and Aston Villa. While the race is tight, Guardiola remains confident that his team still controls its destiny.
He acknowledged that this season hasn’t lived up to the club’s usual standards, especially compared to the historic run of four straight league titles. However, he also stressed that the situation could be far worse. In his view, City’s position could have dropped much lower given how far their performances have dipped. He pointed out that critics often overlook how easily they could have been down in 11th or 12th place if not for key results at crucial moments. Still, Guardiola insisted the team has a chance to turn things around and finish strong.
Injuries remain a challenge, with key players like Erling Haaland, John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Ederson still ruled out for the weekend clash at Everton. However, there is some good news on the injury front. Manu Akanji could return to action after two months on the sidelines, and Phil Foden is expected to be fit after missing the last match against Crystal Palace due to a knock. His return could provide a much-needed boost as City enter the final stretch of a tightly contested season.
As the pressure builds, Guardiola’s focus is squarely on getting his team back where they belong. He made it clear that returning to Europe’s top competition is not just a goal but a responsibility. For him and the club, sitting on the sidelines during the Champions League isn’t just disappointing—it’s unacceptable. The determination in his words suggests that City will be fighting hard to reclaim their spot among Europe’s elite.
