Guardiola unhappy with season: "This season has not been good for us, but..."

Manchester City head coach Josep Guardiola shared his thoughts on the team’s performance and current situation ahead of the FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest.

The Spanish specialist openly emphasized that for him, the main criterion for defining a successful season is the performance in the Premier League. However, the Citizens' results this season have not satisfied him.

“Whether we reach the FA Cup final or secure a Champions League spot, this season has not been up to our expectations. For me, the key indicator of a good season is always the Premier League. This year we are significantly below our usual level. Yet we should remember, things could've been worse. Right now we're in third place; we could have been fourth, fifth, or even worse,” Guardiola said.

The Manchester City boss reminded everyone that his team has the chance to reach the FA Cup final for the third consecutive time, but stressed it will be difficult due to a very strong opponent.

“We have the opportunity to reach the FA Cup final for the third consecutive year. But to achieve this, we must overcome a very serious and strong opponent,” noted the coach.

At the same time, Guardiola emphasized that even winning the FA Cup would not necessarily indicate that the team has returned to its former high level.

“Even if we win this cup, it doesn't mean we're back to our previous top level. Championships are forgotten after two days. Yet this trophy would bring joy to our fans. Currently, it doesn't matter how many trophies you have won. We're third in the Premier League. Even in the matches we've won, we showed weaknesses and were not flawless,” the Spanish specialist said.

Guardiola also expressed confidence that Manchester City will return to their best next season and compete strongly with opponents.

“I am confident that we will be much stronger next season. We'll demonstrate our real strength and compete properly with rivals. This isn't a guarantee we'll win the Premier League, reach the Champions League final, or cups. My players will hardly have any chance to rest. But I trust that my players will deliver good performances,” Guardiola concluded.

The FA Cup semi-final match between Manchester City and Nottingham Forest will be held on April 27, kicking off at 20:30 Tashkent time. The winner will advance to the final. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!