Pep Guardiola believes the Premier League title race is still alive for Manchester City, even after their frustrating 1-1 draw against West Ham United on Saturday night.
The result at the London Stadium left City nine points behind league leaders Arsenal F.C.. Although the champions still have a game in hand, the dropped points gave Arsenal a major boost as they chase their first league title in years.
Before the match, Guardiola suggested that losing points could end City’s chances of catching Arsenal. After the draw, however, the Spanish coach softened his stance and said the race is not finished yet.
Still, Guardiola admitted his team must improve quickly if they want to challenge at the top during the final eight matches of the season.
Lack of Consistency Hurting City
Guardiola pointed to inconsistency as one of City’s biggest problems this season.
Last weekend, City impressed with a strong performance against Newcastle United F.C. in the FA Cup. But their momentum quickly faded after a heavy 3-0 defeat to Real Madrid C.F. in the UEFA Champions League and the draw against West Ham.
The mixed results have left their hopes in both competitions under serious pressure.
Guardiola said his squad has improved compared to last season but still has work to do.
“We have improved a lot since the start of the season, but the job is not finished,” he explained.
Struggles in the Final Third
Despite being among the highest scoring teams in the Premier League, City have struggled to break down teams that defend deep.
West Ham scored with their only shot of the match. In another recent league game, Nottingham Forest F.C. managed to score twice from just four shots on target in a draw at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola admitted his team needs more creativity in attacking areas.
“In the end we need more creativity,” he said. “In many games this season we have not been good enough in the final third.”
Haaland’s Goal Drought a Concern
Another issue for City has been the recent form of star striker Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian started the season strongly, scoring 19 goals in his first 17 league matches. However, he has managed only three goals in his last 12 appearances.
Haaland missed the FA Cup win against Newcastle through injury and struggled to make an impact in recent games against Real Madrid and West Ham.
Even though he remains the league’s top scorer, City need his goals more than ever during the final stretch of the campaign.
“We miss his goals,” Guardiola admitted. “Erling is very important for us and we need to create more chances for him.”
Title Race Still Possible
Guardiola insists City will keep fighting until the end of the season. But with Arsenal holding a strong lead and only a few matches left, the defending champions must quickly find their best form to keep their title hopes alive.
