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Pep Guardiola anticipates a formidable challenge from Crystal Palace as Manchester City continue their pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal, with the Eagles also poised to play a pivotal role in the title race.
City must secure victory in their rearranged fixture against Palace on Wednesday to maintain pressure on the Gunners at the top of the table.
Oliver Glasner’s side could significantly influence the title outcome, as they are also scheduled to face Arsenal on the final day of the season.
However, with a Conference League final to prepare for after that match, Glasner has hinted at squad rotation. The Austrian manager stated on the weekend: “I’m responsible for Crystal Palace and I get paid for doing the best things for Crystal Palace and not for City and not for Arsenal.”
Despite the possibility of changes, Guardiola expects Palace to remain a difficult opponent.
Man City need to beat Crystal Palace to keep the pressure on Arsenal (PA Wire)
He told reporters at his press conference on Tuesday: “They are so professional. Crystal Palace will play top against us.”
Drawing parallels, he added: “We saw Leeds against Spurs yesterday, how they are now out of the relegation battle, but how they compete. We’ve played here against Aston Villa and West Ham in the past when they had nothing to play for and saw how difficult it was.
“So I‘m pretty sure they will do their best even though they have a final a few days later. They have always been tough games. The quality is there.”
A win for City would narrow the gap to Arsenal to just two points, with both teams having two games remaining.
Guardiola had previously expressed hopes for a favourable result from West Ham Sunday, famously ending a press conference with a chant of “Come on you Irons” before their clash with Arsenal. The following day, the Hammers were denied a late equaliser by a stoppage-time VAR review.
While the incident has sparked considerable discussion, Guardiola declined to elaborate on any potential frustration within the City camp.
He explained: “I didn’t see the players yet. I always give them a day off. Crystal Palace – thinking what we have to do. Always I’ve learned, in my career as a manager, what you cannot control, forget about.
Abdukodir Khusanov could return from injury on Wednesday (PA Wire)
“Do better (than) what you have not done better this season and arrive in better positions to fight for the Premier League. We are still fighting.”
In terms of team news, City are hopeful that Rodri will be fit after four games out with a groin injury, and Abdukodir Khusanov could also return.
Guardiola confirmed both players were “better” and would undergo assessment in training.