Pep Guardiola reveals the five crucial matches that Man United will drop points in their remaining fixtures of the season
The rivalry between Manchester’s two heavyweights rarely strays beyond matchday drama, but this time the tension appears to have spilled into the psychological arena. As the 2025/26 campaign heads toward its decisive weeks, Pep Guardiola has reportedly delivered a blunt verdict on Manchester United’s bid for Champions League qualification, privately casting doubt on their ability to finish in the top four.
United, currently fourth on 48 points after a revival under Michael Carrick, have rebuilt momentum at a crucial stage of the season. Yet Guardiola is said to remain unconvinced. According to sources close to the situation, the Manchester City manager believes United lack the depth and emotional steadiness required to navigate a tense run-in that also features strong competition from Aston Villa and Chelsea.
In comments that have reportedly circulated among insiders, Guardiola suggested United may struggle when the pressure intensifies. He is believed to have highlighted five fixtures that could define — and potentially damage — their European ambitions.
First comes a demanding trip to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on March 4. Newcastle’s relentless pressing style and strong home support have unsettled several top sides this season, and Guardiola supposedly views that clash as a potential stumbling block, particularly if fatigue becomes a factor.
An away showdown with Chelsea on April 18 is also seen as pivotal. With the London club just three points behind, the encounter at Stamford Bridge could swing the balance in the race for fourth. Guardiola reportedly considers it a high-stakes psychological battle that will test United’s nerve as much as their tactics.
Liverpool’s visit to Old Trafford on May 2 presents another stern examination. Even on home soil, facing Liverpool in a North-West Derby carries unpredictability. Guardiola is said to believe Liverpool’s rapid transitions could exploit gaps in United’s current setup.
A home meeting with Aston Villa on March 15 is equally significant. Under Unai Emery, Villa have shown tactical organization and resilience, qualities that may frustrate United’s more expansive and sometimes chaotic attacking play.
Finally, there is the season finale away at Brighton & Hove Albion on May 24. The Amex Stadium has proven a difficult venue for visiting teams, and Guardiola reportedly predicts that if United require a result on the final day, the weight of expectation could prove overwhelming.
Despite the skepticism, United’s recent performances offer encouragement. They claimed a statement 2-0 victory over Manchester City at Old Trafford, with goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu underlining their renewed confidence. Still, the table reveals how narrow the margins remain. Arsenal lead with 61 points from 28 matches, City sit on 56 from 27, Villa have 51, United 48, and Chelsea 45. A single misstep in the closing weeks could dramatically alter the landscape.
Whether Guardiola’s remarks are a calculated attempt to apply pressure or a sincere footballing assessment is open to debate. What is certain, however, is that United’s Champions League fate now rests on their ability to navigate a demanding sequence of fixtures and silence doubters in the process.
