Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has credited a pivotal moment during the summer Club World Cup in the U.S. as a turning point in the squad's current success. Speaking after City's hard-fought 2-1 Premier League victory away at Nottingham Forest, Guardiola opened up about a series of honest discussions with his players that reshaped the team's approach and mentality.
"It was a critical moment. We reflected deeply in America during the Club World Cup. We talked a lot and changed many things. This is a process. You can now see it in our body language — the way we celebrate, the connection with the fans. The supporters love everyone: the goalkeeper, the forwards, because they feel the team is united and fighting for each other."
— Pep Guardiola
⚽ From Disappointment to Resurgence
Following a disappointing previous campaign in which City finished third in the Premier League — their lowest under Guardiola since his arrival in 2016 — and fell short in the Champions League, League Cup and FA Cup, drastic reflections were overdue. The Club World Cup ended in further disappointment as City exited in the round of 16.
Since then, however, City has turned the tide. The team has qualified for the Champions League knockout stages, is set for the League Cup semifinals, and is trailing Premier League leaders Arsenal by just two points. City's current form includes eight consecutive wins across all competitions, six of which came in the league.
🎯 The Winning Goal
The latest of those wins came thanks to Rayan Cherki, who netted the decisive goal in the 83rd minute and contributed to City's opener.
"These winter away games are tough. Even when we won six Premier League titles, matches like this were always demanding. These three points are massive, especially considering the quality of the opponent."
— Pep Guardiola
Though Nottingham Forest sits 17th in the league table, just five points above the relegation zone, Guardiola praised their resilience, noting their solid performances in the European League group stage and their aggressive style under manager Sean Dyche. "Results haven't gone their way recently, but they're a top team regardless," Guardiola added.