Pep Guardiola says Manchester City top-four finish would be 'unbelievable' ahead of Premier League clash v Liverpool

Manchester City have arguably had their most challenging campaign of Pep Guardiola's tenure, having slipped away from contention in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. The priority is to ensure that City are dining at Europe's top table again next season, and Guardiola stated just how big an achievement that would be, in light of their struggles this season.

Guardiola says top-four finish would be 'unbelievable' for Man City

Video credit: SNTV

Pep Guardiola explained that it would be an "unbelievable" achievement if Manchester City were to end a troubled season with a top-four finish.

After an injury-ravaged campaign and spells of uncharacteristically indifferent form, the City boss explained that UEFA Champions League qualification would be even more satisfying.

City were eliminated from Europe's premier cup competition following a 6-3 aggregate defeat in a knockout round play-off to Real Madrid after a 3-1 loss at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.

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Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Guardiola said: "100% for sure it will be a big achievement. [It would be] unbelievable.

"I’m incredibly positive [we will do it]. I’m an incredibly positive person. I always see the bright side of the situation.

"I’m not saying I’m stupid to see the reality of what it is, but, I’m positive.

Guardiola says Haaland still a doubt for Liverpool clash

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"Still, we have three months ahead of us and the target to qualify for the Champions League for next season to be there.

"Of course we’re going to try. It would be a big success.

"In my mindset, I can think we will do it or will not do it. And I think we will do it. And after that, the reality will dictate who we are as a team right now."

Guardiola's side have a chance to bounce back when they host table-topping Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

There are 17 points between the two sides before kick-off, and the City boss paid tribute to the club's chairman and board for their backing during a difficult campaign.

"I’m still here not sacked because what happened in the recent past has been extraordinary and especially because of the type of chairman, CEO, and sporting director that we have.

"In other clubs and cultures, it may be different.

"We are fourth, not bottom of the Premier League. Even with how we struggle we are in a more than decent place.

"We will not fight for the Premier League but for the FA Cup we are there but, in the Champions League, we were miles away like we could not expect at the beginning of the season.

"I always felt that whatever happened, they are there.

"I appreciate it a lot. Maybe some managers talk about bosses extending contracts, but that isn’t the case because it’s already done.

"But they have been amazing."

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