According to manager Pep Guardiola, while securing the FA Cup may not restore Manchester City to their former glory, it would serve as a fitting conclusion to their domestic season. City have faced considerable challenges this year, having slipped behind title contenders Liverpool and Arsenal due to an uncharacteristic nine defeats—surpassing the total losses they experienced in the previous two seasons combined. Additionally, they were eliminated from the Champions League during the knockout stages.
Guardiola, who has led City to six league titles, noted that he has never ended a season without a trophy since his arrival at the club and believes the team will return to peak performance in the next campaign.
“Winning the FA Cup doesn’t guarantee that we will bounce back to our previous level. It’s just a title, a number. Nonetheless, it would be wonderful to conclude the season in that manner and have a brief respite before we head to the (Club) World Cup,” Guardiola explained to the media.
“I won’t alter my approach… These kinds of seasons can happen to any team, not just Manchester City. It did surprise me during mid-season, especially after eight years reaching this point. Now, here we are in third position.
“There are reasons for our unexpected decline. I have a strong feeling that next season will be an improvement. We will return to competing in the manner that is expected of us.”
City will face Nottingham Forest in the second semi-final at Wembley on Sunday, with Guardiola aiming for a third consecutive final appearance, potentially against either Crystal Palace or Aston Villa.
However, Nottingham Forest pose a formidable challenge, as Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad is also vying for a top-five finish in the league to secure a Champions League position, as well as aiming for their first FA Cup final in 34 years.
“It would be fantastic to reach a third final, but we’re up against a serious and formidable opponent,” Guardiola acknowledged.
“The fans of Nottingham Forest have been waiting a long time since their team reached the FA Cup semi-finals, but we have a considerable amount of experience in this competition.
“He (Espirito Santo) has been remarkable, leading Wolves to the Europa League and now achieving success with Nottingham Forest. He’s done an excellent job.”
Guardiola shared that goalkeeper Ederson has returned to training, although he withheld confirmation on whether the Brazilian would take the field, having missed the last two matches due to injury.
“I’m unsure if he will be ready for this game, but I hope he’ll be available for the next one,” he noted.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
