Manchester City's aspirations for a fifth consecutive Premier League title have been dashed, with midfielder Bernardo Silva conceding that the team is "completely out of the title race." The defending champions currently trail league leaders Liverpool by 14 points, languishing in sixth place after securing only two victories in their last ten league matches.
The season has been marred by a spate of injuries, most notably to Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is sidelined for the remainder of the campaign. Several other key players have also endured extended absences, compounding the team's struggles on the pitch. Silva emphasized the need to "accept reality," focusing on immediate match outcomes rather than the distant prospect of catching up to Liverpool or Arsenal.
Reflecting on the team's predicament, Silva remarked, "I wouldn't say it's impossible because in football there are no impossibles, but right now Manchester City is completely out of the title race, no question about that, it's too late for us." He acknowledged the adage that, while a league cannot be won by January, it can certainly be lost—a sentiment that resonates with City's current situation.
Manager Pep Guardiola has faced mounting pressure amid the team's downturn, which includes a recent 2-1 defeat to Manchester United, where City conceded two late goals. Post-match, Guardiola admitted to not being "good enough" and took responsibility for the team's lackluster performances. This self-critique follows a series of disappointing results, with City achieving only one win in their last eleven matches.
Looking ahead, Manchester City is set to face West Ham United on Saturday, followed by an FA Cup fixture against fourth-tier Salford City on January 11. With the Premier League title seemingly out of reach, the team may redirect its focus toward cup competitions and securing a top-four league finish to ensure Champions League qualification for the next season.
