Manchester City edged past Tottenham with a 1-0 victory on Wednesday, thanks to Erling Haaland’s early goal, boosting their hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Despite winning six league titles in the past seven seasons, City have struggled this campaign and currently sit 20 points behind leaders Liverpool.
With their Champions League hopes already dashed and only the FA Cup left as a trophy target, Pep Guardiola admitted this season has not been up to their usual standards but remained optimistic.
“Never will this season be the old City. Old City were too good, but we will be back,” Guardiola said.
City dominated the first half but failed to extend their lead, allowing Spurs to apply heavy pressure after the break. Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou acknowledged his side’s slow start proved costly.
“First half, we were too eager and wasteful with the ball. Against City, that allows them to get into a rhythm,” Postecoglou said. “We dominated after the break but just lacked the goal.”
While City fight to secure a Champions League spot, Spurs remain 13th and focused on their Europa League campaign as they seek their first trophy in 17 years.
