Brazil have reportedly set their sights on Manchester City's mastermind Pep Guardiola as one of three prime candidates to replace Dorival Junior, who was sacked after a dismal run in charge. 

The 62-year-old coach lost his job on Friday night, having managed just seven wins in 16 matches since taking over in January 2024.The decisive blow came with a humiliating 4-1 defeat to rivals Argentina during the international break, leaving Brazil clinging to fourth place in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification standings.Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano broke the news of Dorival's exit late Friday, stating, "Brazil have fired Dorival Junior following the 4-1 defeat vs Argentina. He's no longer the head coach as Brazil are now looking for a new manager with immediate effect."The loss to Argentina exposed Brazil's struggles, and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) wasted no time in launching their hunt for a fresh face to lead the Selecao into the 2026 World Cup.Guardiola, long admired for his tactical brilliance at Manchester City, tops a shortlist that also includes Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti and Al Hilal's Jorge Jesus, according to Brazilian outlet UOL.The 54-year-old Spaniard has hinted at his desire to step into international management, saying last year, "I would like to train a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship. I would like that."He added, "When I started in this I never thought about winning a league title or the Champions League. No. I thought, I have a job? OK. I would like to have the experience of living through a World Cup, or a Euro or a Copa America, or whatever it is. I would like that."With his Manchester City contract running until mid-2027, any move would hinge on negotiations, but posts on X suggest the CBF have been persistent, contacting Guardiola multiple times this year.UOL's report shed light on Brazil's preferences, noting, "If he had to choose one, President Ednaldo Rodrigues would put Ancelotti in the role. The Italian is an 'old' love, who did not sign when the CBF initially wanted, in 2023." Ancelotti, however, has played down speculation, saying recently he has not been approached by Brazil and remains committed to Real Madrid, where his deal lasts until mid-2026.Despite this, Rodrigues is keeping his options open. "The president of the CBF knows that he needs to broaden the field," the report continued. "That's why he's expanding the front that includes, for example, Guardiola and Jorge Jesus."The CBF are already working the phones, with intermediaries tasked to gauge each coach's availability. "After that, it's a matter of understanding which is more viable and how and if the respective conversations will move forward," UOL explained. Even Palmeiras' Abel Ferreira could emerge as a dark horse if the big names prove elusive.For now, Brazil are in a race against time. Their next qualifiers, against Ecuador and Paraguay, loom in June, and the CBF are desperate to appoint a heavyweight to restore the five-time world champions to their former glory. Guardiola, with his trophy-laden tenure at Manchester City, could be the man to spark that revival, if Brazil can prise him away from the Etihad.

Report: Pep Guardiola targeted as Brazil swing axe on Dorival Junior

Manchester United have received a massive lift in their summer transfer plans, with Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly urging Sporting CP star Francisco Trincao to join the Red Devils.

Manager Ruben Amorim is plotting an ambitious double swoop, targeting Trincao and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen to transform United's fortunes next season.Amorim has been clear about his vision, insisting clever signings are vital to fit his dynamic 3-4-2-1 setup. "We need players who can execute the system," he said earlier this month.With several current squad members struggling to meet his demands, the Portuguese boss is eyeing reinforcements to push United back up the Premier League table.The right wing-back role has emerged as a priority for the summer window. United had initially chased Sporting's Geovany Quenda, but the teenager is now set to join rivals Chelsea in 2026. Undeterred, Amorim has turned his attention to Quenda's teammate Trincao, a versatile 25-year-old who can operate as a winger or No. 10.Trincao previously had a loan stint at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2021-22 but failed to leave a lasting mark.Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has provided fresh insight into United's pursuit. "Multiple Portugal stars have told Trincao to make the move to Old Trafford," Bailey told United In Focus. Captain Bruno Fernandes and full-back Diogo Dalot, both ex-teammates of Amorim at Sporting, have spoken glowingly of United during international duty.Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner and national icon, has also thrown his weight behind the transfer, reportedly telling Trincao it's the right step for his career.Trincao himself is eager to return to the Premier League and prove his worth. Manchester City have entered the race, with Sporting chief Hugo Viana set to become their director of football this summer, but Ronaldo's endorsement could tip the scales in United's favour. "Ronaldo's influence is huge, especially in Portugal," Bailey noted. "That could be the difference."Amorim sees Trincao as a perfect fit, capable of thriving on the flank or in central areas. Estimates suggest Sporting could demand around 66.5 million euros for his services, a significant jump from earlier 30 million-pound valuations.The second part of Amorim's plan involves Osimhen, the prolific Nigerian striker. "A move to United appeals to him," a source close to the player said, despite the club's mid-table struggles.However, Osimhen, who views himself as a Champions League-calibre talent, might need convincing. United's hopes could hinge on lifting the Europa League trophy this season.Backed by Fernandes, Dalot, and Ronaldo's glowing reviews, Trincao's integration at Old Trafford could be seamless. United first registered interest in him on March 2, per initial reports, and momentum is building. Meanwhile, Amorim is reportedly open to offloading winger Alejandro Garnacho to boost his transfer kitty, despite co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe's stance that academy graduates aren't for sale.Elsewhere, former United boss Erik ten Hag has advised Ajax youngster Amourricho van Axel Dongen to stay put. "He told him Holland is best for his growth," a Dutch source confirmed, ruling out a move to England for the 20-year-old.With Ronaldo's seal of approval and Amorim's bold strategy, United are gearing up for a blockbuster summer that could reshape their squad, and their future.

Ronaldo's influence could swing Trincao's move to Manchester United

Mason Greenwood's journey at Marseille has taken another twist, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano offering the latest on the former Manchester United striker's future.

The 23-year-old swapped Old Trafford for the Stade Velodrome in the summer of 2024, sealing a permanent move worth 26 million pounds after a turbulent spell with the Red Devils.Manchester United opted to part ways with Greenwood following a high-profile legal case involving charges of attempted rape and assault, which collapsed when key witnesses pulled out.After an internal probe, the Premier League heavyweights loaned him to Getafe, where he reignited his career with eight goals and six assists. Marseille won the race for his signature, beating out rivals from across Europe.Greenwood has since dazzled in France, racking up 16 goals and three assists in 28 appearances for Marseille. Yet, eyebrows were raised when he found himself on the bench for their last two Ligue 1 outings.Manager Roberto De Zerbi didn't mince words, demanding more from his star forward. "No one respects him more than I do," De Zerbi has said. "But I expect more. He has to sacrifice more and be more consistent if he wants to become a champion."The Red Devils, meanwhile, have kept a keen eye on their former academy gem. With a 50% sell-on clause tucked into the Marseille deal, they stand to pocket around 31 million pounds if Paris Saint-Germain, rumoured suitors, make a move. A cash windfall like that could fuel United's planned summer overhaul.But De Zerbi has since slammed the brakes on exit talk, heaping praise on Greenwood. "I really adore him and his father," the Italian coach has said. "He's had a tough time with his daughter's birth and isn't used to playing intense seasons as a key man."His physical condition dipped, but he trained hard this week. When he pushes, he's the one who plays. Tomorrow, he'll start."Adding fuel to the fire, Romano has quashed speculation of an imminent transfer. "Lots of rumours, but nothing's decided," the journalist revealed on X on March 28. "There are no negotiations with other clubs right now."Marseille fans will be buzzing to see Greenwood back in the XI, while Manchester United wait to see if their sell-on clause sparks a financial fireworks display. For now, the striker's focus remains on lighting up Ligue 1.

Report: Mason Greenwood sparks Marseille fireworks amid transfer buzz

Barcelona have been dealt a setback with Dani Olmo forced to hit the brakes once again.

The Spanish midfielder, a key figure under Hansi Flick, has suffered a minor myofascial injury in the abductor muscle of his right leg, ruling him out for three weeks.The 26-year-old had started six consecutive matches, including Thursday's La Liga clash against Osasuna, but he won't make it seven after limping off in the 28th minute at Montjuic.The club confirmed the diagnosis on Friday afternoon, revealing the extent of the injury following medical tests. While the lay-off isn't lengthy, it comes at a pivotal moment in the season. "It's a blow, no doubt," Flick said after the Osasuna match. "Dani's been vital for us, and we'll feel his absence."Olmo still managed to leave his mark against Osasuna, scoring before his early exit in the 1-0 victory. However, his injury couldn't have come at a worse time for Barcelona.They face a crunch Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, followed by a Champions League quarter-final showdown with Borussia Dortmund in two weeks. In La Liga, their lead is precarious, three points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid with plenty of football still to play.Since joining from RB Leipzig, Olmo has battled to find his rhythm at Barcelona. His first season was plagued by registration issues and injuries, missing 10 matches across all competitions.Despite that, he's featured in 28 games, carving out a role in the attacking midfield in recent weeks. Now, this latest setback stalls his momentum.Flick has options to fill the void, with Gavi and Fermín Lopez likely to step up during Olmo's absence. The German boss will need to shuffle his pack carefully, especially after Olmo's recent stint with Spain during the international break.The midfielder played in both of La Roja's Nations League quarter-final ties against the Netherlands, clocking 24 minutes in one and 84 in the other.The road ahead looks bumpy, but Barcelona will hope their squad depth can keep them on track while Olmo recovers. For now, the Catalan giants must soldier on without one of their brightest sparks.

Dani Olmo's injury blow halts Barcelona's charge

Bayer Leverkusen turned up the heat on Bundesliga frontrunners Bayern Munich with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over VfL Bochum, cutting the gap at the top to just three points ahead of the weekend's remaining fixtures.

A second-half brace sealed the deal for the hosts, who are now flexing their muscles in the title race.The match marked Leverkusen's fifth straight home win against Bochum, but it didn't come easy. After a sluggish opening, they grabbed the lead inside 20 minutes.Exequiel Palacios teed up Aleix Garcia, who bent a beauty past Bochum keeper Timo Horn from just outside the box. "We started slow but found our rhythm," Garcia said after the game, reflecting on his opener.Bochum, however, refused to roll over. A rare Granit Xhaka error gifted Georgios Masouras a chance, and though Lukas Hradecky denied the initial effort, Felix Passlack pounced with a stunning looping volley to level things up. "That goal was pure instinct," Passlack has said of his moment of magic.Leverkusen struggled to respond before halftime, heading into the break all square.Whatever Xabi Alonso told his squad at the interval worked wonders. Leverkusen came out firing, with Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick both going close early in the second half. Bochum countered briefly, forcing Hradecky into action, but the hosts soon regained control.Garcia's free kick found Piero Hincapie, who nodded it back across goal for Boniface to tap in. "It's about staying patient," Alonso has said of his team's approach. Bochum kept battling, but Leverkusen's pace on the break kept them on edge.Jeremie Frimpong nearly extended the lead, while Boniface saw a second goal chalked off for offside. The knockout blow arrived late when Palacios picked out substitute Amine Adli, who darted through and slotted home coolly. "That's the spark we needed," Adli said post-match.With back-to-back wins now under their belt after a shaky run of three losses, Leverkusen are peaking at the perfect moment. No Bundesliga side has overturned a six-plus-point deficit this late in a season since Stuttgart in 2006/07, but Alonso's men look ready to defy history.Meanwhile, Bochum, despite showing fight, remain in deep trouble as they scramble to avoid relegation after four years in the top flight.Bayern will feel the pressure as this title chase heats up. &nbsp;

Bayer Leverkusen strike late to slash Bayern's Bundesliga lead

Real Madrid are set to take on Leganes in La Liga action this Saturday night at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, and manager Carlo Ancelotti has had plenty to say ahead of the clash. 

The Italian gaffer held court in his pre-match press conference, touching on everything from squad rotations to his upcoming tax fraud trial next week."We've talked about a lot today, haven't we?" Ancelotti said with a grin as he wrapped up the press session. On the legal matter, he kept it brief but confident: "It's an important issue. I have to go and give my statement, yes. This isn't the place to discuss it."Next week's hearing is an appeal from the prosecution because I already won the case. I trust the law, I'm not worried about it."Switching to football, Ancelotti was in his element, covering all bases with his trademark clarity. From La Liga schedules to potential UEFA sanctions for his players in the Champions League, he even found time to respond to Barcelona boss Hansi Flick's recent comments."I agree with Flick's complaints," Ancelotti said. "It's a bit odd to play on this date after the international break. I also agree that Real Madrid are not Barcelona."Flick had earlier taken a swipe at Real Madrid's grumbling over fixture timings, saying: "We're Barca, not Real Madrid, and I'm very proud of that." Ancelotti, unfazed, kept his focus on his own team. "We believe everything has been handled properly, and we hope UEFA make their decision soon. We're confident it'll end well," he added.Speculation about a potential move to manage Brazil popped up again, but Ancelotti shut it down. "Have Brazil contacted me? No," he said firmly. "My contract is clear, and I've nothing more to add. I've got a lot of affection for the Brazilian fans and their players, but I'm under contract with Madrid."When asked if Brazil legend Ronaldo had tried to lure him, he chuckled: "I don't remember speaking to Ronaldo about this."Reflecting on the international break, Ancelotti revealed he'd taken a trip to Italy. "I had a great time visiting my 'great-grandparents', Botticelli and all those lads. It was brilliant, and thankfully, I dodged all this noise," he quipped.The veteran boss also aired his frustration over La Liga's refusal to tweak schedules. "Sometimes there's no justified reason not to change a game," he said. "Take Villarreal, they agreed to shift our match, the TV companies were fine with it, but La Liga said no. If a game can be moved and they don't, we won't play. If there's a real reason it can't change, we'll turn up."Looking at his squad, Ancelotti was upbeat. "The players have come back in good shape. We're hitting the final stretch of the season now, and we've got to step up. Every game could be a decider from here."Despite Barcelona's three point lead in the La Liga table, he refused to write off the title race. "No, La Liga isn't done yet," he insisted. "Barcelona have the edge, but we've got the Clasico coming up, and there are plenty of matches left. We need to give our all, starting tomorrow."Hopefully, we've got 17 games left—that'd mean we're in the fight across all competitions until the end."

Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid ready for Leganes showdown

Manchester United's hopes of landing Sporting Lisbon's prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres this summer have reportedly taken a major hit.

The 27-year-old, who has banged in an astonishing 83 goals in 91 games since joining Sporting from Coventry City for 20 million pounds in 2023, is set to prioritise a move to a club where he can lift silverware, and Old Trafford doesn't fit the bill.Gyokeres has been a long-term target for United, with fans dreaming of a reunion between the Swedish star and their manager Ruben Amorim, who swapped Sporting for United in November 2024.The striker's red-hot form in Portugal has also caught the eye of Europe's elite, but his next step hinges on one key factor: Champions League football. Unless United can clinch the Europa League this season, they're out of the race.Transfer guru Duncan Castles dropped the bombshell on The Transfers Podcast, revealing Gyokeres' stance. "He wants to go to a club where he can prove himself, where he can win trophies," Castles said."His assessment of where Manchester United are at the moment is that it's not the option to take in a summer where he'll be turning 27."Castles added: "He's going to look at the clubs making him offers and pick the one he thinks is the best place to show his time in England's lower divisions and at Brighton wasn't a true reflection of his ability. He believes what he's done in Portugal can be replicated in the Premier League or elsewhere in Europe."The good news for suitors? Gyokeres will be on the move. "He'll be available this summer," Castles confirmed. "Sporting have a gentleman's agreement that he can leave for around 80 million euros, but I'm hearing his agents will push to lower that to 60-70 million euros."United's transfer woes don't end there. They've also set their sights on Sporting's winger Francisco Trincao, but Sporting are digging their heels in. With Gyokeres' exit looming, the Portuguese giants are "determined not to let Trincao go," according to reports.They're braced to lose their star striker and won't budge unless a bid tops his 50 million pound release clause, and even then, they want at least 35 million pounds to offset the 50 percent sell-on clause Barcelona hold from his 6 million pound move in 2023.Amorim, who knows Trincao well from their time together at Sporting, remains a big fan. Reports suggest he's "convinced" the 25-year-old, who had a stint at Wolves in 2021-22, can hit the ground running in the Premier League.But with Sporting holding firm and United facing a 70 million pound price tag to secure him, the Red Devils might need to rethink their summer plans.For United fans, it's a double blow, no Gyokeres, and a tough fight for Trincao. The clock's ticking for Amorim to find his attacking spark elsewhere.

Report: Viktor Gyokeres snubs Man Utd chooses winning trophies instead

Leon Goretzka's army of passionate supporters took their devotion to new heights on Thursday, shaking up Bayern Munich's preparations with an unexpected outburst.

Local outlet TZ Munchen reported that a group of teenagers infiltrated the usually private training session at Sabener Strasse, loudly chanting the midfielder's name and causing a stir.Bayern, known for their disciplined setup, had scheduled a closed-door session to sharpen their focus ahead of upcoming fixtures.However, the youngsters' relentless shouts pierced through the calm, forcing security to step in and restore order. The noise levels hit such a peak that guards had no choice but to act swiftly, chasing off the culprits who bolted from the scene shortly after.This chaotic moment reflects a growing trend among Goretzka's fanbase, who have made a habit of roaring his name wherever he goes, whether it's during matches, warm-ups, or even as the Bayern squad move to and from their team bus.The 30-year-old, a combative force in the heart of Bayern's midfield, has taken it all in his stride, rarely showing signs of being rattled by the attention."He's a player who thrives under pressure, on and off the pitch," former Bayern star Lothar Matthäus once said of Goretzka, praising his ability to stay cool-headed.That composure has been evident as this social media-fuelled ‘Goretzka mania' continues to gather pace, with clips of fans bellowing his name popping up across platforms like X in recent weeks.Bayern themselves have yet to comment officially on the incident, but head coach Vincent Kompany has previously spoken highly of Goretzka's impact. "He's a role model for the whole team," Kompany said earlier this season after the midfielder's match-winning brace against Wolfsburg.With the Bavarians chasing Bundesliga glory and a deep Champions League run, they'll hope their midfield dynamo can channel this wild support into more standout performances.As of Friday morning, posts on X from Bayern fans suggested the club were amused but unfazed by the disruption, with one supporter joking, "Goretzka's fan club are louder than our ultras!" For now, the former Schalke man remains a fan favourite, and a headache for security teams, at Sabener Strasse.

Leon Goretzka's super-fans storm Bayern Munich training in wild scenes

Liverpool have reportedly kicked off early talks to bring Bayer Leverkusen's dynamic Netherlands right-back Jeremie Frimpong to Anfield, according to various media reports.

The move comes as the Reds brace for a major shake-up at the back, with Trent Alexander-Arnold heavily tipped to join Real Madrid when his contract runs out at the end of the season.The Merseyside outfit are already planning for life after their homegrown star, who looks set to leave for free in the summer of 2025. While young gun Conor Bradley is in line for a bigger role, with reports suggesting Liverpool are working to extend his deal, the club are not putting all their eggs in one basket.Frimpong, a versatile and attack-minded full-back, has emerged as a prime target to fill the void.Frimpong's contract at Leverkusen includes a release clause worth 34 million pounds, making him a cost-effective option for a player of his calibre. It's no shock that Liverpool aren't alone in the race, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United have all been linked with the 24-year-old in recent months.His price tag and skill set make him a hot commodity across the Premier League.The Dutchman's journey to this point has been impressive. After coming through Manchester City's youth ranks without breaking into the first team, Frimpong moved to Celtic in 2019. There, he caught the eye with his pace and flair, earning a switch to Leverkusen two years later.At Celtic, former boss Neil Lennon didn't hold back in his praise. "He's one of the best kids I've seen," Lennon said during Frimpong's time at Parkhead. "His level of performance is outstanding. He has pace, power, end product, he's been magnificent since he came in the door."Ex-Celtic captain Scott Brown was equally impressed, highlighting Frimpong's relentless energy. "Jeremie is incredible, to be honest," Brown said in 2019. "He runs up and down that line, and his change of direction and speed are so hard to cope with. He's been great since coming in, a lovely lad and down to earth."Frimpong's attacking instincts and versatility echo what Alexander-Arnold has brought to Liverpool over the years, though the England international's defensive work has often been under scrutiny. With Bradley ready to step up and Frimpong available at a reasonable price, the Reds are unlikely to splash out huge sums on a replacement, a smart move given Alexander-Arnold's exit won't bring in a transfer fee.According to reports, Liverpool have held "initial talks" with Frimpong's camp, with sources noting he's "of interest" to manager Arne Slot.Personal terms, it seems, won't be an issue if the deal gathers pace.Alexander-Arnold's expected move to Real Madrid could spark a “domino effect”, pushing Liverpool to ramp up their pursuit of Frimpong.With Slot's side leading the Premier League and eyeing more silverware, the Dutch defender's arrival could keep the Reds firing on all cylinders down the right flank.Watch this space, this transfer chase is just heating up.

Report: Liverpool approach Jeremie Frimpong as Trent Alexander-Arnold replacement

Bayer Leverkusen's gaffer Xabi Alonso faced the press on Thursday, with many expecting him to drop hints about his next move.

Instead, the Spaniard sidestepped the speculation, keeping his focus firmly on the here and now. "I'm zoned in on this season," Alonso said. "We're at a crucial stage, and we're not here to guess about the future. It's all about the football for us."With his contract running until 2026, the rumour mill had been buzzing, especially in Germany, where pundits reckoned he might spill the beans on his plans for next term.But the Basque boss wasn't having it. "I'm concentrating on this campaign, nothing else," he added, brushing off the chatter like a seasoned pro.Real Madrid, in particular, will have to bide their time if they're eyeing Alonso's services. The Spanish giants have long been linked with their former midfield maestro, but he's given them no encouragement yet.Before Leverkusen's thrilling 4-3 win over Stuttgart earlier this month, Alonso had already hinted he wasn't in a rush to decide his future. "There was nothing to settle," he said post-match. "We're not looking too far ahead—just taking it game by game."The clock's ticking for Real Madrid, though. Their current boss, Carlo Ancelotti, sees his deal run out in just under a year, leaving the club with a big call to make about who'll steer the ship next.Alonso, who wore the famous number 14 shirt during his playing days at the Bernabeu, remains a prime candidate should Ancelotti move on.For now, though, the Whites will need to stay patient, at least until Leverkusen's season wraps up.Time will tell where Alonso's dugout destiny lies.

Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso remains silent over Real Madrid rumours

vodacom-soccer/uploads/authors/author_thumb_jw399.jpeg

Rob Fleming is a sports writer and can cover all sports, but specialises in football, tennis, Formula One, boxing, rugby and cricket. 
A lifelong Liverpool supporter, is well-travelled and a 'Jack of all trades'. He previously worked in finance and spent time sailing around the Mediterranean.
From 1999-2002, was Sports Editor at iAfrica, then from 2002-2014 was at Touchline Media as KickOff Magazine online editor and content provider (First online editor ever at Media 24 in 2002). 
He has been a content provider for SuperSport, BBC and Goal at various times. Joined TEAMtalk Media in 2014 to work on FOX Asia, left in 2019 and joined Ole Connect in 2021.
Rob is now part of the Vodacom Soccer content team, bringing his vast experience to the brand.

Kaizer Chiefs winger Pule Mmodi is targeting three crucial points against Golden Arrows in a Betway Premiership clash in Durban on Saturday. 

The match carries extra significance for Mmodi, who will be facing his former club, Abafana Bes'thende, with his current team seeking to avenge their previous defeat.The last time these two sides met, Kaizer Chiefs suffered a disappointing 1-0 loss to Golden Arrows, a result that left a bitter taste for the Soweto giants.Now, with the opportunity to set the record straight, the Chiefs squad is determined to turn the tables and claim a much-needed victory.Mmodi, aware of the challenge posed by his former team, has acknowledged their strength but remains confident in Chiefs' ability to get a positive result.Kaizer Chiefs have had a mixed campaign so far, winning eight, drawing five, and losing nine of their 22 matches.With inconsistency plaguing their season, securing a win against Arrows could provide a vital boost for their league ambitions."Golden Arrows is a good team, and with their new coach, they'll likely have a different approach. However, we're focused on our own game plan, and we're confident that we can get a result," he told the club's official website."We're aware that the league is entering its final stretch, and we need to be consistent in our performances. We are confident that we can make a strong finish to the season."We're currently eighth on the table, but we still have a chance to finish in the top four. We'll be facing teams that are above us, and that's a great opportunity for us to make up ground."I think, to be fair, we've been playing good football, but we need to work on winning games and scoring goals. As a forward player, I know that I need to contribute more in terms of goals. We strive to win all the games that are remaining and give our best." &nbsp;

Pule Mmodi: Kaizer Chiefs must take opportunity to beat Golden Arrows

Pep Guardiola has admitted that this season has been tough for Manchester City, as the club faces the possibility of missing out on the Champions League for the first time since the 2010-11 campaign.

City currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, putting their qualification hopes in serious jeopardy.Guardiola, who has won 18 trophies in his nine years at the club, suffered an unprecedented setback this season, failing to reach the Champions League last 16 for the first time in his managerial career.With European glory out of reach, City's only remaining targets are a top-four finish and the FA Cup.Despite the struggles, Guardiola remains optimistic, believing the challenges will ultimately benefit both himself and his players."In the good moments, always you learn," said Guardiola."In the bad moments as well, we learn. Sometimes the experiences can happen many, many times and, if you don't learn, you have the problems again and again. Of course, of course, it's a good lesson for me, personally"I learned a lot - and hopefully for the club as well. When I said in the past - and the people said 'Ah, Pep is naive' - that qualification for the Champions League is a huge success, the people didn't believe me. Now they believe me." &nbsp;