This season has not been easy for Pep Guardiola—neither on the pitch nor off it. The Catalan coach failed to achieve Manchester City‘s ambitious goals in the Premier League and Europe, but he still has one final opportunity to end the season with a trophy. On Sunday, they face Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semifinals—a chance to redeem a forgettable season.

Full Confidence
Guardiola has no doubts. The club will invest heavily in transfers, and he believes Manchester City will reclaim its lost position. He said: “We lacked passion, and it showed in the players’ body language, especially when celebrating goals. We must improve in many aspects. This season has been a big lesson for us.”

Despite poor results and competing for smaller goals, Pep believes in his players’ ability to bounce back and warned for next season: “We will be a real team again. I know the players and the club. We must restore that competitive passion. We will be back—I’m sure of it.”

Rodri, Haaland, Ederson—No Rush
Recently, Rodri has taken a more active role in the dressing room, motivating his teammates from the stands. Guardiola praised the Spanish midfielder’s efforts despite his injury: “He understands the midfield role well and helps fix weaknesses. Everyone is excited for next season’s Champions League.” Regarding Rodri’s condition, Pep said he is in the final stages of recovery but will only return with medical clearance.

Regarding the Ballon d’Or winner, he admitted that Rodri is in the final phase of recovery but will only play if doctors approve his return.

Rodri is not the only injured City player. Ederson and Erling Haaland are also recovering from their injuries but will not be ready in the short term. The Norwegian striker remains heavily involved in team matters, but Pep avoided discussing the future of the Brazilian goalkeeper, who has been linked with a summer exit. He said: “I don’t want to comment on this. We have very important games ahead. I won’t discuss individual player situations.”

About Nottingham Forest, Sunday’s opponents, Guardiola praised the work of Nuno Espírito Santo, the manager of the two-time European champions: “They attack and defend as a cohesive unit. Their results speak for themselves.”