Defending Premier League champions Manchester City have faced an unexpectedly challenging season. With seven losses from their first 24 league matches, and 35 goals conceded, they currently sit in fifth place in the table.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola gestures on the touchline during the UEFA Champions League Knockout Phase Play Offs (Pic – Supplied)
Despite this, Guardiola’s side remains in a far stronger position than their rivals, Manchester United, who are struggling through a difficult domestic campaign.
United, sitting in 13th place, have endured 11 league defeats and have lost their last three Premier League matches.
While they’ve shown promise in cup competitions, performing well in both the Europa League and FA Cup, their league form has been disappointing.
“Maybe we’ll finish 14th-15th but we are fifth, we are not dropping like other teams that had success in the past,” said Guardiola.
Guardiola’s remark comes ahead of City’s upcoming fixture against Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
With City eager to close the gap on the teams above them, a victory will be crucial in their bid to climb back into the title race.
