Manchester City has once again demonstrated its remarkable consistency by securing a spot in the FA Cup final, a record fourth consecutive appearance. According to Guardiola, this achievement, along with five League Cup victories, truly defines the club, extending beyond the pursuit of a Champions League title. "What defines this club is not just the Champions League or titles, but the fact that we have won the League Cup five times and reached the FA Cup final four consecutive times. That is true consistency," the Spanish coach stated.
Despite their early exit from the Champions League this season, losing to Real Madrid in the round of 16, Manchester City has maintained a formidable presence in domestic competitions. They have already secured the League Cup and currently sit second in the Premier League, just three points behind Arsenal. Their recent 2-1 victory over Southampton sealed their place in the FA Cup final.
When asked about the possibility of replicating the 2019 domestic treble, Guardiola remained cautious, downplaying immediate expectations. "Too far, very far. Before the FA Cup final, before the match against Aston Villa in the final round of the Premier League, I could say Manchester City has a chance. But for now, it's too far," he explained, emphasizing the challenges ahead.
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Coach Pep Guardiola (in black) celebrates with Erling Haaland after Manchester City's 2-1 victory over Southampton in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley Stadium, London, England on 25/4. Photo: FA
At Wembley Stadium, Manchester City fielded many reserve players, allowing Championship side Southampton to pose significant challenges. Southampton even took the lead in the 79th minute with a superb curling shot from Finn Azaz. However, within five minutes, from the 82nd to 87th, Jeremy Doku and Nico Gonzalez scored consecutively, helping Manchester City secure a comeback victory. This win made them the first team to reach the FA Cup final for the fourth consecutive time. In the three previous seasons, they lost 0-1 to Crystal Palace, 1-2 to Man Utd, and won 2-1 against Man Utd, respectively.
Guardiola admitted that Manchester City experienced a challenging match, acknowledging Southampton's excellent form. The Championship team boasted a 20-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, including a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
The 55-year-old coach specifically praised Doku, highlighting his crucial role in turning the game around. Doku created the turning point with a decisive run across the goalmouth before scoring the equalizer. "We played better and created many chances in the second half, but we didn't capitalize fully," Guardiola stated. "But Doku made the difference. He is a significant threat in one-on-one situations, continuously improving and gaining influence in the team's play."
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Doku (in blue) breaks through and scores the 1-1 equalizer for Manchester City. Photo: Fantasista
Guardiola has managed Manchester City since the summer of 2016, guiding the club to 19 titles. These include six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, and one Champions League.
In the FA Cup final on 16/5, Manchester City will face either Chelsea or Leeds. Their next match is on 4/5, when Manchester City will visit Everton in round 35 of the Premier League. The Spanish coach also emphasized the importance of rest as the team enters a decisive phase of the season. "The players have three days off; I told them not to think about football, but to rest," he said.
Hong Duy (according to ESPN & Mancity.com)
