'It is still in...' - Pep Guardiola reveals the biggest problem of the club moving forward

Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that missing out on the Champions League next season would pose a challenge, but he firmly believes it does not spell the end of Manchester City’s legacy. The club's manager highlighted the numerous teams who have faced difficulties in securing a spot in European football’s top competition, emphasizing that a comeback is always within reach.

Following the team's 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, Guardiola remains optimistic about their team's ability to bounce back and continue their journey.

Pep Guardiola talks about Champions League Qualification 

Pep emphasized that qualifying for the Champions League is a great achievement, but ultimately, victory in the tournament is the true goal. Regardless of whether five, six, or seven teams are contending, winning matches is essential. He is determined to secure a place in the Champions League.

Furthermore, England could gain an additional slot in the Champions League due to UEFA's co-efficient rankings. This scenario would provide Guardiola with a strategic advantage, but he remains firmly focused on achieving a top-four finish for the club.

"It would not be good (if we didn’t) but I saw what happened with other Premier League teams in the past. Not being in the Champions League would be a problem but there are teams who didn’t qualify who have come back and they are there now," Pep said.

"How many years were Manchester City in the Champions League by February? Ten years? No, more than that. And we before that they never played in the competition," Pep added.

Manchester City currently sits fifth in the Premier League table, and as it stands, this position could secure them Champions League football. However, they must remain vigilant, as Brighton, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, and Newcastle are all within three points, poised to capitalize on any further missteps.

"We will have to continue next season, but we have 10 games, it is still in our hands and we are going to try," Pep concluded.

The Sky Blues are also firmly in contention for third and fourth place. Nottingham Forest is four points ahead on 51 points, while Chelsea occupies 4th spot with 49 points.