City need to win their rearranged clash against the Eagles on Wednesday to keep the pressure on the Gunners at the top of the Premier League table.
Oliver Glasner’s side could have a big role to play in the title race as they also face Arsenal in the final round of fixtures.
However, as Palace also have the Conference League final to prepare for after that game, Glasner could rotate his team.
The Austrian has even hinted at as much by saying: “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.”
Guardiola, though, expects Palace to remain difficult opponents, regardless of the players selected.
He said: “They are so professional. Crystal Palace will play top against us.
“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.”
Victory for City would take them back within two points of Arsenal, with two games remaining for both teams.
Abdukodir Khusanov could return for City this week (Nick Potts/PA)
Guardiola had made clear he was hoping for a favour from West Ham last weekend when he ended a press conference with a chant of “Come on you Irons” ahead of their clash with Arsenal.
The following day the Hammers were denied a late equaliser following a stoppage-time VAR review.
The incident has been a huge talking point but Guardiola refused to discuss any frustration City may have felt.
He said: “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.
Pep 💬 (On Rodri’s fitness) [He’s] better. We will see in training this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/Cvhf9qk7tt
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 12, 2026
“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.”
City are hoping Rodri will prove his fitness after four games out with a groin injury and Abdukodir Khusanov could also return.
Guardiola said both players were “better” and would be assessed in training.