Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Manchester City could face difficulties signing their top transfer targets this summer if they fail to secure Champions League football for next season. After a challenging campaign, City currently sit fifth in the Premier League—a position that, thanks to England’s UEFA coefficient, would still be enough for Champions League qualification. However, Guardiola admitted the club’s ability to attract elite players is closely tied to their participation in Europe’s premier competition.
Guardiola explained, “It depends on the players we want and whether they just have one option. If they have many, I’m pretty sure the players take a look to the ones in the Champions League, of course. Maybe players will come anyway and then there are the other ones who say they don’t want to go because of no Champions League.”
He also noted that he hasn’t yet spoken to potential signings about next season and that there isn’t a separate transfer list for different European scenarios.
Despite spending heavily in January, City are expected to strengthen again this summer, especially with Kevin De Bruyne set to leave and further changes anticipated. Guardiola emphasized that nothing is guaranteed: “You have to earn it. Nothing in this world is taken for granted and you have to deserve it to play next season there.”
With six league games left, Guardiola’s focus remains on finishing in the top five and reaching the FA Cup final, but he admits the pressure is different now that City are fighting for Champions League qualification rather than the title.