City’s slump is set against the backdrop of Guardiola’s unresolved future. He is in the final year of his contract and it was widely expected within the club during the summer that he would leave in 2025, alongside director of football Txiki Begiristain, whose departure, and the arrival of Hugo Viana as his replacement, was confirmed in October.

Manchester City are reportedly keen on signing Bayern Munich's highly-rated midfielder, Jamal Musiala. The Premier League champions, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, are looking to strengthen their squad further and have identified the young German as a prime target.

Pep Guardiola admits he was baffled by Jack Grealish’s England call-up, given the midfielder is ruled out for Manchester City’s clash away at Brighton.