Guardiola admits Man City need to get more ruthless after West Ham’s setback

Manchester City Manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that his charges need to show more threat after their title hopes suffered a setback, courtesy of a 1-1 draw with West Ham United on Saturday, 14 March 2026.

Widening gap

A point against the Hammers left Man City nine points behind leaders Arsenal, although they have a game in hand over the Gunners and a clash at the Etihad still to come.

City dominated possession but struggled for clear opportunities in the first half at the London Stadium. The Premier League’s leading scorer Erling Haaland was not on target, but Guardiola said there are reasons why City are struggling to find the net.

“The lack of goals, we miss it, but it’s not about that,” the boss said. “At the beginning of the season, Phil [Foden] was unstoppable as well. It’s easy to say the reason why is this player or this player, but it’s about connections, vibes, form and many things that create good interactions,” Guardiola said.

“Erling knows it, we need his goals, but we need to create more like in the first 20 minutes of the second half. First half, we had a lot of control, but didn’t have that threat. For him to be involved, we have to create that threat. He will be back soon.”

More chances

The City boss believes that City have created enough chances to have won several of the games they have drawn this season, but thinks the fact that they have so many new players this campaign might be part of the reason they have scored fewer goals.

Though the Blues dominated the game against West Ham, one goal from their 24 shots proved the difference in a frustrating 1-1 draw at the London Stadium. “Football is unpredictable,” said Guardiola. “They have one chance and score one goal, but it’s happened in the past.” He added.

Manchester City will now shift attention to the UEFA Champions League assignments when they host Real Madrid for the return leg of the Round of 16 on Tuesday, March 16, 2026.

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