It’s a sign of just how far Pep Guardiola’s Man City have fallen in such a short space of time that the securing of an FA Cup Semi-Final is now considered a huge achievement and one that has all but salvaged the club’s 2024/25 campaign.
Remember, this is a side that came into the current season having won the last four Premier League titles in a row, as well as a host of other items of silverware. They now have a battle just to secure a spot in UEFA’s top-tier tournament for next season and will hope success in the FA Cup could help get things back on track at the Etihad Stadium.
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As The Citizens are set to take on Nottingham Forest in the Semi-Finals at Wembley, with a victory potentially pitting Guardiola’s squad against either Aston Villa or Crystal Palace in the final.
The recent slump in form under the Spanish manager marks the most challenging period of his illustrious career, a downward spiral he’ll be eager to halt.
To illustrate the depth of City’s fall, they have lost nine Premier League games as of April 5th. That total is more than 2022/23 and 2023/24 combined, and the season is not even over.
Guardiola has cut a forlorn figure for much of the season and was in an apologetic mood when he discussed the possible riches his team can secure at the FIFA Club World Cup, stating of the potential massive payout for winning in the United States this summer,
“We don’t deserve a bonus this season.”
“The bonus, if you win, I don’t know how much, it’s for the club.”
“The managers, the backroom staff, the players, we don’t deserve – not even a watch,” added Guardiola.
It seems very much like a season of transition, and given the possibility of a big punishment from the Premier League in relation to the 115 charges they have been hit with for financial irregularities, this summer could prove pivotal in what happens next.
Manchester City has this week confirmed the departure of legendary playmaker Kevin de Bruyne, with the Belgian set to leave at the end of the season.
The former Chelsea man moved to the Etihad Stadium in 2015 and has experienced unparalleled success over the past decade. The 33-year-old has won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and a UEFA Champions League triumph.
He has racked up 413 appearances and scored 106 goals and is a player Guardiola is loathed to lose,
“It was not easy for me to tell him it [his City career] won’t continue,” the all-conquering manager stated.
“Football led me to all of you – and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This city. This club.” De Bruyne commented on his departure.
“These people gave me everything. I had no choice but to give everything back. And guess what – we won everything.”
“Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michele, and I are beyond grateful for what this place has meant for our family. Manchester will forever be on our kids’ passports – and more importantly, in each of our hearts.”
“This will always be our home. We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride.” the much-loved City star added.