Manchester City has endured a nightmare season. Recent improvements in the Premier League do not erase the dark days the team faced under Pep Guardiola in recent months.

Since Rodri’s injury, the Citizens have failed to resemble the dominant Manchester City of old. They risk ending the season without a trophy. City has already lost the League Cup, Premier League, and Champions League, leaving only the FA Cup as their remaining hope. The team is also battling for a Champions League spot next season.

Ilkay Gündogan, City’s veteran star, told ESPN today that the disaster of this season cannot and should not be ignored. Even if City wins the FA Cup, they must acknowledge that something is wrong with the team and fix it before next season.

Gündogan said in the interview: “In recent months, we were nowhere near the standard we set for Manchester City. The reality cannot be ignored. We were not good throughout the season. We were not at City’s level. This cannot be changed. We must accept the truth and be honest with ourselves. It is crucial to acknowledge reality. Two objectives remain for us: qualifying for the Champions League and winning the FA Cup. Champions League qualification is vital for both the club and the players. The FA Cup is our only chance to avoid ending the season trophyless. But even if we win it, we shouldn’t think this was a good season. The problem must be identified, and next season we must return with it resolved. City cannot afford another season like this.”