Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola celebrated his team’s dramatic late win against Everton, calling it a crucial step in their quest for Champions League football next season.
The reigning champions secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory at Goodison Park, with both goals coming in the final minutes. Guardiola emphasized the significance of the result, especially after Everton’s recent strong form, including wins over Nottingham Forest and Liverpool.
“This was a big win,” Guardiola said. “With just five or six games left, coming to Goodison—where even Arsenal and Liverpool couldn’t win—and getting three points is massive for us.”
He also stressed that securing a top-four finish would represent a “big success” for City this season, praising his squad’s resilience despite injuries and a challenging campaign.
“People talk about character only when you win, but these players have shown it for a decade,” he said. “We’ve had tough moments, especially with injuries, but we’ve stayed competitive. Right now, we’re fourth, and it’s in our hands. The next game against Aston Villa is like a final—we have to treat it that way.”
Guardiola also singled out midfielder Rico Lewis, who impressed in an unfamiliar left-back role. “He’s naturally an attacking player, but his speed and awareness make him effective defensively too,” he said. “It’s funny—our left-backs keep scoring. First Gvardiol, now Lewis. We’re lucky to have him.”
With Everton set to move to Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium next season, Guardiola reflected on Goodison Park’s iconic status. “I’ll miss this place,” he admitted. “My first time here, Ronald Koeman’s Everton destroyed me. It’s a proper Premier League ground—like Stoke’s old stadium, with that unique atmosphere. The new stadium will be impressive, but this one holds history. As a kid, I watched Gary Lineker’s goals here and thought, ‘This is English football.’ The game has changed, but this place will always be special.”
City now turn their focus to Tuesday’s clash with Aston Villa, knowing another win could solidify their grip on a Champions League spot.
