According to reports, despite numerous setbacks, Manchester City may have a sweeter ending to the season than expected. This season will be recorded as Guardiola’s weakest in his managerial career, but it also highlights the high standards he has set for his teams.

Manchester City fell behind Liverpool and Arsenal in the Premier League title race and was eliminated early by Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. However, reaching the FA Cup final for the third consecutive year after defeating Nottingham Forest (2-0) shows the team returning to form. This victory sends City to face Crystal Palace in the final on May 17 at Wembley.

Recent wins against Crystal Palace (5-2), Everton (0-2), Aston Villa (2-1), and Nottingham Forest, along with six wins and two draws in the last eight matches, indicate improved performance. City has not lost since March 8, when they were defeated by Nottingham Forest in the league.

Mateo Kovacic, named Man of the Match in the FA Cup semi-final, said the team has regained its identity and grown stronger with the return of injured players. He emphasized that reaching the FA Cup final and securing a top-four spot in the league reflects the team’s determination to finish the season strongly.

Guardiola, however, bluntly stated that even winning the FA Cup and qualifying for the Champions League cannot make this season successful. He pointed to the significant gap with league leaders Liverpool and the Champions League failure, calling this season unsuccessful and stressing that the club must make the right decisions to improve next season.

Currently, Manchester City sits fourth in the Premier League with 61 points, competing for a Champions League spot. Additionally, participation in the Club World Cup and the return of players like Erling Haaland and Rodri Hernandez could provide extra motivation for a better finish. Ricardo Lewis, City’s scorer in the FA Cup semi-final, believes the team has overcome injury challenges and is ready to shine next season.

These achievements, though not saving the season, demonstrate Guardiola’s ability to rebuild the team under difficult circumstances. He has once again proven that even in his worst season, he can lead the team to significant success.