Pep Guardiola admits Manchester City running out of time in Premier League title race: ‘We’re used to it'

Pep Guardiola admitted that the game against West Ham is 'an important one'. After that, they also face Real Madrid, where they will need to make a comeback.

Published on: Mar 14, 2026, 21:39:42 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Manchester City's time is running out in the ongoing Premier League title race, and Pep Guardiola knows that. Seven points behind leaders Arsenal (67) but with a game in hand, City travel to London for their upcoming Matchday 30 match against West Ham.

Manchester City's Pep Guardiola spoke about the Premier League title race. (AP)

Speaking ahead of the match, the Spaniard admitted that the game against West Ham is 'an important one'. After the West Ham game, they also face Real Madrid, where they will need to make a comeback.

Also Read: Tottenham’s relegation battle: Winless run, injury crisis and mounting pressure as Igor Tudor faces survival test

"Tomorrow night we have a game, an important one for the Premier League position. Then we have the second leg", he said.

"We're used to it, no? For many years we've lived these kind of situations.

"Now it's West Ham and after that we will have time to think about it. Play the game you have to play and after the game will dictate if you have a chance or not.

"We don't have many dollars in the bank but we will see on Tuesday. Now it's West Ham. The Premier League is the most difficult title. We're still there, knowing that if we drop points it will be over."

Haaland is the Premier League's top scorer this season with 22 goals in 28 games.

West Ham is also in a relegation battle right now. "We are desperate too", Guardiola said.

"I've always said when we arrive in the last 10 games every team plays for something -- for relegation, for Europa League, for Conference League, for Champions League, to be champions. It's normal, every game.

"Now there are no second chances."

Commenting on his side's first leg defeat to Real Madrid, "This is not the first time I've been hurt. I've lost many times in Champions League at all stages; many, many, many times and have been massacred for decisions and what happened.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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