Pep Guardiola Admits Premier League Title Race Could Slip Away After Latest Defeat

Pep Guardiola Admits Premier League Title Race Could Slip Away After Latest Defeat

Manchester City’s Premier League title hopes are on shaky ground after a crushing 4-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad Stadium. This marks City’s fifth consecutive loss in all competitions and their third straight league defeat—a streak that hasn’t happened in 18 years.

Pep Guardiola has candidly acknowledged that a loss to Liverpool at Anfield next weekend could potentially end their title ambitions. If Liverpool beats Southampton this Sunday, they could go eight points clear. A loss for City against Liverpool would widen the gap to 11 points, a margin Guardiola admitted might be insurmountable.

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"Victories Build Confidence," Says Guardiola

“We are not in a position to think about the title,” Guardiola remarked after the Tottenham game. “If we don’t win the league, it’s because we don’t deserve it. Right now, we need to focus on Feyenoord for Champions League qualification and then take it step by step.”

Defensive injuries, including John Stones’ forced substitution at halftime, have exposed City’s vulnerabilities. Over their recent poor run, they’ve conceded 14 goals. Guardiola admitted, “We are fragile right now. Victories are key to rebuilding positivity and confidence, and we need to break this cycle.”

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Tottenham's Tactical Brilliance Under Postecoglou

Tottenham Hotspur delivered a stellar counter-attacking performance to climb to sixth place in the Premier League standings. James Maddison scored twice on his 28th birthday, while Pedro Porro and Brennan Johnson added to the tally in the second half.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou praised his team, saying, “City test you in every possible way, but credit to the lads. They were outstanding. This result showcases our progression and belief.”

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The Road Ahead for Manchester City

With a Champions League fixture against Feyenoord followed by a crucial clash at Anfield, Manchester City faces a defining week. Guardiola’s side has been one of the most consistent teams in the Premier League era, but their recent form underscores football’s unpredictable nature.

Can City recover their form and reignite their title hopes, or will Liverpool’s momentum leave them too far behind? The next week will reveal whether Guardiola’s men can bounce back or face a season without silverware.

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This article is written by Jitendra Gawali, who always strives to provide valuable insights and unique perspectives in his writing.