Champions League permutations: What do Man City & PSG need to qualify – and what is cost of not qualifying?
Manchester City’s surprising poor form has spanned across all competitions.
It began with Tottenham knocking them out of the EFL Cup in October and Pep Guardiola’s side have since won just five of their 17 matches in all competitions.
When it comes to the Champions League, City took seven points from their opening three games, but then suffered losses to Sporting and Juventus and squandered a three-goal lead against Feyenoord to draw 3-3 at Etihad Stadium.
City have looked to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window, although new additions will not be able to play in the league phase.
“Of course it is a really important game for us and for PSG, but we still have another game against Bruges at home,” said Guardiola.
“I don’t know how many points we will need. Six points will be mathematically [sure], but maybe four, maybe three.
“But if we don’t qualify we have to accept we were not good enough.”
Meanwhile, PSG are yet to lose in the French top flight but have failed to replicate that form in Europe – earning a measly seven points from six matches with three losses, one draw and two wins.
In the table, they are the lowest of Europe’s so-called ‘big clubs’ and currently sit in an elimination spot.
Luis Enrique’s side have suffered defeats by Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Atletico Madrid, as well as a home draw against PSV.
“The reality is we should have won the games against PSV and Atletico,” said Enrique. “With those [extra] five points we would already be qualifying for the next round.
“But I am very optimistic and confident. Is it a must-win game? The obligation is all the players give 100%, and I take the same attitude every day.
“You can lose games, and that’s life. The most important thing is to be committed.”
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