'I love who they are' - Pep Guardiola insists players who weathered Man City storm this season will always hold a special place in his heart

After years of success, Manchester City and Guardiola have struggled so far in the 2024-25 season. The team are a distant 12 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool and in danger of being eliminated from the Champions League ahead of the final round of group fixtures.

Injuries have also taken their toll on Guardiola's side, meaning the Catalan coach has been forced to use players in unfamiliar positions and adapt his squad throughout the campaign. The City boss says the effort made by his players who have been prepared to sacrifice themselves and battle for the club over a difficult last few months has meant a lot to him and is something he will not forget.

He told TNT Sports: "I will never forget those players that were there [in this period]. Never. And they know who they are. In the circumstances, horrible, playing out of position. I know the names. All of them will remain in my heart. How the injured players made an effort to play. I love it. I love who they are and I admire them. I will appreciate them for the rest of my period here."

Guardiola's side have been able to strengthen in the January transfer window and have signed Vitor Reis, Omar Marmoush and Abdukodir Khusanov. The signings come at a good time as City face Chelsea next in the Premier League and then take on Club Brugge in a must-win Champions League fixture.