Manchester City must win their upcoming match against Brentford to keep their Premier League title hopes alive, according to manager Pep Guardiola. The 3-3 draw with Everton on Monday left City six points behind leaders Arsenal, who now hold a five-point advantage with three games remaining. Guardiola stressed that victory at Etihad Stadium on Saturday is essential to apply pressure on Arsenal, who face West Ham the following day. "Put pressure on Arsenal winning our games," Guardiola said. "That's all we have to do. All we can do." City were heading for a damaging defeat at Everton until Jeremy Doku struck in the final moments to secure a draw. The Belgian winger scored twice, including a 98th-minute equaliser, bringing his season total to seven goals โ his highest tally since joining the club. Doku has now scored in four of his last five league appearances. Guardiola praised his all-round contribution, highlighting his defensive work and assists alongside his goals. "I'm so glad," Guardiola said. "Jeremy has been amazing this season." City face Brentford with hopes of a seventh title in nine seasons still mathematically possible. Rodri is in contention to return from injury, while Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are close to full fitness. Meanwhile, City's women's team claimed their first Women's Super League title in a decade, ending Chelsea's six-year dominance. Guardiola commended the achievement, calling it one of football's most significant developments in recent years. "The impact on the girls, the teenagers, who now say 'I want to play football'," he said. "It's the biggest step world football has made in the last decade."
City's survival in the title race depends entirely on results going their way after dropping points at Everton despite Doku's late heroics. Guardiola can only demand wins while waiting for Arsenal to slip โ a scenario now dictated by others. No Nigerian or African player featured in the match or commentary.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer โ