Pep Guardiola expressed optimism about Manchester City’s recent form, following three consecutive victories, but remained tight-lipped regarding potential signings to bolster his injury-ravaged squad in the upcoming January transfer window.
City’s dismal run of just one win in 13 matches across all competitions was finally broken with a 2-0 win over Leicester on December 29. They followed that up with a commanding 4-1 victory over West Ham in Julen Lopetegui’s final match as the London club’s manager, and an 8-0 demolition of fourth-tier Salford in the FA Cup third round last weekend.
“Before, it was impossible to win one, so now we’ve won three and that helps us,” Guardiola remarked on the eve of City’s upcoming Premier League match against Brentford. However, he was quick to temper expectations, acknowledging that the victories came against weaker opposition, including Salford, who play in the League Two, and West Ham, who were struggling under their previous manager.
Despite the improvements, Guardiola emphasized the need to assess the team’s true identity, stating, “We did it quite well, but still we have to wait to see who we are. You know who we are, but of course, the mood is better.”
Looking ahead to their next challenge, Guardiola stressed that Brentford, who have impressed in the Premier League this season, would provide a tough test. “We have an enormously difficult game. Thomas (Frank) and his team always create a lot of problems. They are a fantastic, fantastic team,” he said.
Although Brentford’s FA Cup run ended with a 1-0 loss to Plymouth, their strong home form in the Premier League remains impressive, with only leaders Liverpool boasting a better record at home.
City currently sit sixth in the league, just two points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea in the race for Champions League qualification. Guardiola’s side will be keen to keep the momentum going and close the gap as they look to return to their winning ways.
Regarding his squad, Guardiola provided no update on the status of Kyle Walker. The 34-year-old England right-back has expressed a desire to move abroad but has not started a game for City since their 2-1 loss to Manchester United in mid-December. Guardiola stated he would decide on Walker’s involvement for Tuesday’s match against Brentford later on Monday.
Guardiola was also elusive when asked about reports suggesting City had agreed to a deal with French club Lens for defender Abdukodir Khusanov. “The club didn’t announce anything,” Guardiola said. “I don’t know.”
With the January transfer window open, City fans will be closely watching to see how the manager strengthens his squad ahead of the second half of the season.
