Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shifted full attention to his side’s crucial Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, insisting the title race is far from over despite mounting pressure from league leaders Arsenal.
City face Palace in a must-win encounter as they aim to close the gap at the top of the table.
Guardiola acknowledged the challenge ahead, describing Crystal Palace as a “professional and tough” side capable of testing both City and their title rivals.
The Spaniard dismissed any distractions surrounding Arsenal’s recent VAR-assisted win over West Ham, emphasizing that his team must focus only on what they can control.
“We are still fighting,” Guardiola said. “What you cannot control, forget about it. Our focus is Crystal Palace and what we have to do better.”
Crystal Palace could play a decisive role in the title race, with a fixture against Arsenal still to come.
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However, with a European final approaching, there are suggestions that Palace manager Oliver Glasner might rotate his squad. Guardiola, however, remains cautious.
“They are so professional. Crystal Palace will play at their best regardless,” he noted. “These games have always been difficult, and the quality is there.”
Manchester City are also dealing with fitness concerns, with key midfielder Rodri recovering from a groin injury. Guardiola confirmed the player is improving and will be assessed ahead of the match.
Defender Abdukodir Khusanov is also nearing a return after a recent knock.
With a congested fixture schedule that includes domestic and cup competitions, Guardiola hinted at possible squad rotation but maintained confidence in his team’s depth.
As the season enters its final stretch, City must win their remaining matches and hope for a slip from Arsenal to keep their title ambitions alive. Despite the odds, Guardiola’s message remains clear the fight is not over.
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