"Too Slow, Not Good Enough" – Guardiola Points Out The Cause of Manchester City Defeat And Demands Immediate City Improvement
Pep Guardiola admits Manchester City's slow play cost them against Nottingham Forest and insists his team must improve to secure a Champions League spot.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola did not hold back after his team’s frustrating 1-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest. The loss has put their Champions League qualification hopes in danger, and Guardiola admitted that City were simply too slow in their approach, struggling to break down Forest’s defense.
City had the chance to climb above Nottingham Forest into third place, but they lacked sharpness in attack and failed to create clear-cut chances. Their problems were made worse when Callum Hudson-Odoi scored late in the game, punishing City for their lack of urgency.
This latest defeat leaves Guardiola’s men in fourth place, with the risk of dropping further if Chelsea win their upcoming match. More concerning is City’s overall form—they have now lost 15 of their last 30 games in all competitions.
Speaking after the match, Guardiola admitted his team lacked speed and creativity in their play. He explained:
“We were a little slow in our process, we struggled to create chances, but I give credit to the opponent because they defended really well. Everyone was so connected.”
The City boss went on to highlight the team’s struggles in attack:
“Our game was slow. We couldn’t connect with the final third, and when we did, we lacked the brilliance to make something happen.”
Guardiola made it clear that changes are needed if City want to secure a top-four finish and qualify for next season’s Champions League.
“We have to play better. It won’t just happen—we need to make it happen. The situation is what it is. There are ten games left, and we have to start winning now.”
With just ten games left in the season, Guardiola knows his team must improve quickly. The defeat to Forest exposed weaknesses that could cost them dearly, and City cannot afford more slip-ups.
They will face Brighton next, and Guardiola will expect a much sharper and more urgent performance from his side. The pressure is on, and City’s future in the Champions League could depend on how they respond.
