Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva has admitted that the reigning Premier League champions are effectively out of the title race, trailing leaders Liverpool by 14 points.
City, who lifted a record fourth consecutive league title last season, have struggled this term, sitting sixth in the table after winning just two of their last 10 matches.
Injuries have plagued Pep Guardiola’s side, with key players like Ballon d’Or winner Rodri ruled out for the season and others enduring lengthy absences.
“We need to accept reality. Right now, I’m not even looking at Liverpool or Arsenal,” Silva told Sky Sports on Thursday. “I wouldn’t say it’s impossible because football is unpredictable, but the title race is over for us. This season, we’ve already lost it.”
City will aim to steady their form when they face West Ham United in the league on Saturday before meeting Salford City in the FA Cup on January 11.