Sometimes, it's best for a man to be realistic and frank with himself, especially as regards his dreams or aspirations. The arrival of Pep Guardiola in English football raised lots of dusts amongst sports analysts and fans around the globe. While many didn't see him replicating his Barcelona or Bayern Munich feats in England, others saw it as an acid test for the Spaniard to prove his mettle and convince the world that the Pedigree he holds as one of the best coaches of his era is really deserved. Since then, the former Blaugrana gaffer have transformed the Citizens to a force to reckon with, not only in English football, but even a big threat in Europe to any team that underrates them. Pep's Surgical work on City's anatomy have seen the squad become a nightmare, while spreading almost untrammelled domestic dominance. This spell have led Manchester City to a back-to-back premier league title, the last being the one they had to win through the eye of a needle, as Liverpool gave them a tough fight till the last match.
Liverpool who have also risen through the ranks since the arrival of Jurgen Klopp as their manager, have continued to gather momentum and have now grown into a full flesh dragon, burning down any obstacle on their way. Not only have Liverpool shown that they have what it takes to topple Manchester City in England or rival them, they have metamophosed into a burning flame in European football in the past few years. They reached the UEFA champions league final two years ago, but unfortunately they got whipped by a high flying Real Madrid side. Before then, the last time the reds got to such height was in 2005 when they had to stage a stunning comeback again AC Milan to win the Champions league that year. Since then, it appeared like such glory will never come knocking at their door again.
However, they went against all odds last season and lifted the Trophy after defeating Tottenham in the final. It's also worthy of note that the reds finished one point behind Manchester City(the eventual winner of the league). Manchester City and Pep may have lifted the trophy, but it was certain Liverpool will come for the trophy this season. For Pep, he could make a long time history if he can successfully defend the title once again, thereby making it three consecutive premier league win. With Liverpool basking in the overflowing confidence of their European Glory, the handwriting was crystal clear, "City are up for the impossible." The Citizens tried to maintain their usual rollercoaster ride of intimidation to league glory, but it seems they have been toppled already halfway to the end. After 20 league games by the defending champions, City are 14 points behind Liverpool who are topping the table with 55 points after playing 19 games so far.
For some years now, we've seen Liverpool being toppled towards the tail end of the league, but that seems an impossibility now, considering the momentum at which the European Champions are currently playing. City were the only rival that could stand on their way to league glory this season, but with the wide margin separating the two, it's not out of place to say that City have technically won the league. The awesome twist to this is that Pep has been frank enough to accept that Liverpool he can't stop Liverpool from winning the league this season. Pep who saw his side shocked by Wolves on Friday after they lost 2-3, minced no words in throwing in the towel as regards the league this season.
When asked about the possibility of City still winning the league, he said, "No. It's unrealistic to think about that," Guardiola said in a news conference when asked if Liverpool could be caught. A team which has the numbers of Liverpool, why should we think about that? It's just preparing, play good and better to be as close to the top of the league as we can, prepare for the knockout competitions and for the next season. Every game helps us to improve for next season. Hopefully we can do better. The motivation is to improve because when we improve we win games and that is the way to live better. That is the best motivation for all of us. Even in the past."
From Pep's statement, it's obvious the league champions will have to concentrate more on their quest to win the UEFA champions league, which doesn't look like it's gonna be an easy ride. LiVARpool can have the league, but for Pep, he is no more a contender.
Do You Think Pep Threw In The Towel Too Early or He is just being realistic with the situation as it is?
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