Manchester City’s hopes of securing their top summer transfer targets could be in jeopardy if they fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League, Pep Guardiola has admitted.
After a turbulent campaign, City find themselves in an unfamiliar battle for a top-four finish rather than the Premier League title. While fifth place may still be enough to secure Champions League football—thanks to England’s strong UEFA coefficient—Guardiola conceded that elite players may opt against joining without the lure of Europe’s top competition.
Despite spending around £180 million in the January window, City are expected to reinforce again this summer, particularly with Kevin De Bruyne’s departure confirmed and further exits likely. The club has been linked with moves for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz and Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, but Guardiola acknowledged that Champions League status could dictate their success in the market.
“It’s a good question,” Guardiola said ahead of City’s trip to Everton. “It depends on the players we want. If they have multiple options, I’m sure they’ll look at clubs in the Champions League. Some might still join, but others could say no.”
“I haven’t spoken to any potential signings yet, so I can’t say for sure. The club doesn’t have separate lists for Champions League and non-Champions League scenarios—we’ll adapt either way.”
When asked about the broader consequences of missing out on Champions League football, Guardiola admitted: “I’ll let you know when it happens. Obviously, every club prefers the Champions League over the Europa League—but you have to earn it. Nothing is guaranteed.”
Regarding potential squad departures, he added: “Most players are under contract, except Kevin. The club will decide what’s best. Right now, my focus is on these final six league games and the FA Cup semi-final. After that, we’ll reset and prepare for the Club World Cup in the U.S.”
With City’s four-year Premier League dominance ending, Guardiola acknowledged the shift in mentality: “It’s different when you’re fighting for titles, but our job is the same—win the next game. We have a cup semi-final to focus on, and every match matters.”
As the season reaches its climax, City’s transfer ambitions hang in the balance—with Champions League qualification now more critical than ever.
