Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed caution ahead of his team’s Boxing Day encounter with Everton. City are currently experiencing their worst phase under Guardiola, having won just one game out of their last 12 across all competitions.

Guardiola acknowledged that Everton, who have recently held Arsenal and Chelsea to goalless draws, are not the ideal opponents for City to face as they seek to end their slump.

City’s poor form began with a loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup on October 30, and since then, they have struggled to regain their momentum.

The defending champions have dropped to seventh in the Premier League table, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool. Guardiola is aware that his team needs to get back to winning ways as quickly as possible.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Guardiola said, “They are not the perfect opponent. It is about us to come back to our best. It will take time. We have to get results as quickly as possible.” He also praised Everton’s recent performances, noting that they are in a good moment, with impressive results and displays.

Everton’s solidity at the back, as evident in their recent goalless draws against Arsenal and Chelsea, will pose a significant challenge for City’s attacking lineup. Guardiola will need to devise a strategy to break down Everton’s defense and secure a much-needed win.

City’s next two fixtures will be crucial in determining the trajectory of their season. After facing Everton on Boxing Day, they will travel to Leicester on December 29 for their final game of 2024. Guardiola will be hoping that his team can use these matches as an opportunity to regain their momentum and climb back up the Premier League table.

As City prepare to face Everton, Guardiola’s admission of fear highlights the respect he has for the Toffees’ recent performances. The match promises to be an intriguing encounter, with City seeking to end their slump and Everton looking to continue their solid run of form.