Manchester City's 2024/25 Premier League season was one filled with challenges, making their eventual third-place finish feel particularly rewarding for manager Pep Guardiola. Following a 2-0 victory against Fulham on Sunday, May 25, 2025, Guardiola stated that securing Champions League football felt "like a title" considering the obstacles his team had faced.
Throughout the season, Manchester City battled against a series of difficulties, including injuries to key players and periods of inconsistent form. Guardiola emphasized the mental fortitude required to overcome these hurdles, pointing out that it would have been easy for the team to lose focus and settle for a lower-placed finish. He highlighted the risk of slipping down the table, potentially ending up in 10th, 11th, or even lower, which has happened to other Premier League-winning teams in the past when they couldn't maintain their competitive edge.
Guardiola acknowledged that there was a point in the season, around January and February, where it became clear that winning the Premier League title would be a significant challenge. This realization could have led to a decline in motivation, with players potentially shifting their focus to simply qualifying for the Europa League. However, Guardiola praised his team's resilience, noting that they continued to play well and ultimately secured a Champions League spot.
Despite finishing third, Guardiola isn't completely satisfied. He pointed out the significant gap between Manchester City and Liverpool, indicating that improvements are necessary for the next season. As a result, he has suggested that there would be new faces in his squad next season, though he aims to keep the changes minimal, focusing on trimming the number of players in the first team. The absence of Jack Grealish from the match-day squad against Fulham sparked questions about his future, but Guardiola insisted that it was simply a consequence of having a large squad.
Guardiola's commitment to maintaining high standards is evident in his assessment of the season. Although Manchester City has enjoyed tremendous success under his leadership, including multiple Premier League titles, he recognizes the importance of continuous improvement. He understands that complacency can lead to a decline in performance, and he is determined to keep his team hungry and motivated.
The achievement of finishing third and securing Champions League football should not be understated. In a league as competitive as the Premier League, consistency is key, and Manchester City's ability to overcome adversity and secure a top-four finish is a testament to their quality and determination. Guardiola's leadership has been instrumental in fostering a winning mentality within the squad, and his focus on continuous improvement will undoubtedly drive the team to even greater heights in the future.
