Manchester City's Erling Haaland shows appreciation to fans after a Premier League loss to Tottenham Hotspur. — Reuters
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed confidence in the team's supporters, stating they would rally behind the squad despite a series of disappointing results. Guardiola made these remarks prior to the Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday. City, champions of six of the last seven Premier League titles, have not won in their last seven games across all competitions. Their fourth consecutive league defeat at Liverpool on Sunday saw them slip to fifth in the standings. The sudden decline in form has raised significant doubts about the team's ability to compete for trophies, but Guardiola remains optimistic about the fans' loyalty.
"We need them because the situation is what it is. They have always been there and have this feeling," Guardiola told reporters before the Forest game. "They know what these guys have done in the last decade, there are many good moments we've lived together and we know we absolutely need the support." He emphasized that everyone, especially the players, are committed to turning the tide.
City, currently with 23 points from 13 matches, are 11 points behind leaders Liverpool but only two points behind second-placed Arsenal and third-placed Chelsea. Guardiola acknowledged that the team could no longer aim for the league title and must instead focus on a step-by-step approach to regain their position in the top four.
"We cannot think about the results we've had in the past and to think about the big targets (the title) would be a big mistake," the Spaniard added. "We must try to beat a team that is close to us, to take advantage of them and to be close to the top four ... we will try to win games because that's what you have to try to do." He highlighted the importance of consistent performance and productive moments to build positive thoughts for the future.
City's challenges may intensify as they face a Forest side that has performed above expectations and currently sits sixth, just a point behind City. Guardiola noted Forest's strong physicality, good management, and experience, comparing them to teams like Brighton & Hove Albion.
"It's not just one or two games, it's a lot of games that's been played in the Premier League and they're in the top positions so it means they are good," Guardiola concluded.
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