In the battle of third vs. fourth in the Premier League, it was Nottingham Forest who emerged victorious. On Saturday at the City Ground, the home side secured a 1-0 win over Manchester City thanks to a Callum Hudson-Odoi goal, extending their lead over Pep Guardiola’s side to four points.
1. Nottingham Forest on the Brink of Historic Champions League Qualification
Having never played in the Champions League before, Nottingham Forest are now in pole position to make history. The former two-time winners of the old European Cup last featured in European competition 30 years ago, in the now-defunct UEFA Cup.
Under Nuno Espírito Santo, Forest finished 17th last season, narrowly avoiding relegation. Few expected them to be competing for a top-four spot this term, let alone holding their position comfortably for a prolonged period. However, under Nuno’s guidance, they have found a system that maximizes their squad’s potential.
Key players such as goalscorer Callum Hudson-Odoi, top scorer Chris Wood, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Anthony Elanga have provided attacking firepower. Meanwhile, at the back, goalkeeper Mats Sels and the center-back pairing of Murillo and Nikola Milenković have formed a solid defensive unit. The entire squad has risen to the challenge.
This season marks a stark contrast to last year when an influx of signings led to an unsettled campaign. However, lessons have been learned, and with no European football to juggle, Forest has benefited, especially as every other team in the top four at the start of this game week has had continental commitments this season.
2. A Crucial Result in the Race for the Top Four
With just five points separating Nottingham Forest in third and Aston Villa in 10th, the battle for a Champions League spot is as fierce as ever. There’s also a possibility that a fifth-place finish could be enough for English clubs to qualify, depending on UEFA’s coefficient rankings.
Given the tight competition, this match was effectively a "six-pointer." Not only did Forest gain a crucial three points, but they also ensured Manchester City dropped three, impacting the race significantly.
City will slip to fifth if Chelsea win their game in hand against Leicester City on Sunday. Meanwhile, Newcastle United can match City’s points total with a win in their game in hand. Brighton’s victory over Fulham on Saturday puts them just one point behind Guardiola’s side. Bournemouth, with a win, can move within a point of City, while Aston Villa would be just two points behind if they win their game in hand.
3. Guardiola's Struggles Continue in a Season to Forget
In what has been the worst season of Pep Guardiola’s managerial career, there are no signs of improvement for Manchester City. The reigning champions have now lost 15 of their last 30 games, a shocking decline for a side that has dominated English football in recent years. They were also knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid in the playoffs.
Currently sitting fourth in the table, City’s position is far from secure. If Chelsea wins their game in hand, they will overtake Guardiola’s side. Aston Villa, currently 10th, could close the gap to just two points with a win in their own game in hand.
Up next for City is Brighton, another team eyeing a Champions League spot. The Seagulls won the reverse fixture earlier this season on the South Coast and will be eager to complete the double over Guardiola’s struggling side.
Despite a $200 million spending spree in the January transfer window, City have failed to find consistency. Unlike in previous seasons, Guardiola has been unable to inspire his team to go on a sustained winning run in the second half of the campaign. With the battle for the top four intensifying, the pressure is mounting at the Etihad.