Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are on the brink of achieving a feat never accomplished before in the long history of English football. Should City win their remaining match against West Ham this Sunday, they would clinch an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title under Guardiola’s leadership. No manager has ever won four league titles in a row in the 135 year existence of the English top flight. This would cement Guardiola’s status as one of the greatest ever coaches, having rewritten the record books at City with one of the most dominant periods any team has enjoyed.
While City have once again been head and shoulders above their rivals this season, their challengers Arsenal had pushed them the closest in recent years. The Gunners amassed their second highest ever points tally and had records in goals scored and fewest conceded. However, it still looks set to only be good enough for second place due to City’s incredible consistency. Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool also came agonizingly close in previous seasons but ultimately fell short against City’s mighty machine. Rivals can plan and improve but are left chasing shadows as Guardiola sets new standards of excellence.
City have made a habit of saving their best for crucial moments, even when facing title pressure. Memories remain vivid of last minute winners against Aston Villa and QPR that decided past titles. While challengers dream of a final day slip, history tells us City remain in control of their own destiny. West Ham could write their own story though perhaps a miracle is required to deny Guardiola and his men from making history. One thing is for sure – as long as this special City team remains, rivals face an uphill battle for glory in the Premier League.
