With a three-point gap currently separating them from Arsenal - albeit with a game in hand - City know they cannot afford any slip-ups in the Premier League. The pressure is mounting on Guardiola to manage his squad’s fitness perfectly, especially with the FA Cup final sandwiched between two vital league outings. The Catalan coach has often complained about player welfare, and this latest development only adds fuel to the fire.
City’s run-in begins with a trip to Everton on May 4, followed by a home clash with Brentford on May 9. From there, the schedule becomes a whirlwind of travel and high-pressure clashes. Club officials are now bracing for the impact of this intensive period, fearing that the lack of rest could be the deciding factor in whether they finish the season with a haul of trophies or empty-handed.