Pep Guardiola: Manchester City “Close” to Hitting Top Form Ahead of Bournemouth Clash

MANCHESTER, England — Pep Guardiola has expressed optimism that Manchester City are nearing their best form as they prepare to host Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Despite a setback against Aston Villa last weekend, which interrupted their impressive unbeaten run, Guardiola remains confident that City are close to rediscovering the level of dominance that has seen them claim four consecutive Premier League titles.

City Struggling for Consistency

Manchester City’s form has been somewhat inconsistent since clinching their fourth consecutive Premier League title in 2024. While they have remained unbeaten in their first nine games across all competitions, a narrow defeat to Villa has raised questions about their ability to hit their usual peak. However, Guardiola remains optimistic.

“Still, we’re not at our best, but we’re close,” Guardiola told reporters at a Friday press conference. “I have the feeling when I see the team, when I see in the dressing room, in training, and how we apply our ideas, that we will be a team that will be difficult for opponents to beat.”

Despite recent challenges, Guardiola’s belief in his squad’s potential is unwavering. “Will we be there in the fight for the title? I don’t know, but I’ve been really, really optimistic about this team since the World Cup in the States. I’m hopeful for this season.”

The Return of Rodri

A significant boost for Manchester City ahead of the Bournemouth fixture is the return of midfielder Rodri, who has missed the past four games due to a hamstring injury. Guardiola confirmed that while the Spanish international may not start, his return will be vital for City’s push towards top form.

“Rodri’s been out a few times, and we know how important he is for us,” Guardiola said. “I think he’ll be ready to help, and hopefully, he can be with us for the game, even if not from the start.”

Rodri has been a crucial player in City’s midfield, and his return could provide the stability and control City need to return to their winning ways.

Bournemouth’s Strong Start

This weekend’s match sees Bournemouth sitting comfortably in second place in the Premier League, just four points behind leaders Arsenal. The newly-promoted side has made an impressive start to the campaign, with only one defeat from their opening nine games.

While Guardiola acknowledges the strong start from teams like Bournemouth and even newly promoted Sunderland, he’s not surprised by the competitiveness of the league.

“I remember when I was in Munich or Barcelona, I always heard the rumours that in England, everyone could beat everyone,” Guardiola reflected. “I always had that sense. Maybe Liverpool and ourselves in the past changed that dynamic because we were so consistent in terms of points, getting 90, 90, 90 points, and even close to 100 points every season. But the Premier League has always been like this — all the teams can beat each other, and it’s good for the competition.”

The Premier League’s Competitive Edge

Guardiola also pointed out that the unpredictable nature of the Premier League, with multiple teams competing for top positions, makes it an exciting league for both fans and players.

“At some point, like the NBA, there isn’t a dominant team for the last four or five years, and there’s always a different team challenging,” he added. “Everyone can beat everyone, and I think that’s really good for the spectacle of the Premier League.”

As City look to return to their best, the match against Bournemouth will be a crucial test of their consistency and ability to challenge for the top spot.