"This Season Is an Exception!" – Pep Guardiola Admits Man City's Discipline Has Been Lacking

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has raised concerns about his team’s defensive discipline after a tough week saw them drop crucial points in the Premier League. City’s recent struggles have put them in a challenging position, with their place in next season’s Champions League now under threat.

Manchester City were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw against Brighton over the weekend, just days after suffering another disappointing result. The defending champions have now dropped five points in the past week, leaving them just one point ahead of sixth-placed Newcastle, who have played one game fewer.

With only nine matches left in the season, Guardiola admits his team must improve if they want to secure a top-four finish. He acknowledged that while City have been dominant in recent years, their work ethic and discipline off the ball have not been at the same level this season.

“People say how well Manchester City have played in recent years, and one of the reasons is our work ethic, our discipline. This season has been an exception,” Guardiola explained.

The defensive issues have been particularly concerning, with City already conceding 40 goals in the Premier League this season—more than in any other full campaign under Guardiola. The absence of key defenders John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji due to injuries has further weakened the backline.

City’s problems grew worse when Bernardo Silva, who came on as a substitute against Brighton, lasted only 18 minutes before suffering an injury. Guardiola confirmed that the Portuguese midfielder might be out for at least two weeks, adding to the team’s growing injury list.

“The doctor told me that in two weeks maybe he can recover. Hopefully, he’ll be back,” Guardiola said.

Despite City’s struggles, Guardiola remains confident that his team will improve. He hinted that major changes could be coming next season, suggesting that City will return stronger and more disciplined.

“We don’t have the same players, we are not the same as in the last few years—but it will be different next year,” he assured.

For now, City’s focus remains on finishing in the top four and securing Champions League qualification. However, with their recent inconsistencies and defensive struggles, Guardiola knows his team cannot afford any more slip-ups.