Man City boss Pep Guardiola fears the worst ahead of Boxing Day clash with Everton

Pep Guardiola remained cautious ahead of Manchester City's Boxing Day match against Everton, as the club look to stop its current downturn.

City boss 'Pep Guardiola.'

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City are having their worst season under Guardiola, winning only one of their past 12 games in all competitions. Their abrupt drop in form began with a Carabao Cup loss to Tottenham Hotspur on October 30, and they have since slipped down the Premier League standings, now sitting seventh, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool.

The reigning champions will now try to put a stop to their losing streak and return to form. Their next match is against Everton, who have held Arsenal and Chelsea to goalless draws in their last two league games. Guardiola acknowledged to his nervousness of playing the Toffees before of the Boxing Day match and detailed how they will overcome it.

During his pre-match news conference, the City manager said: "They are not the ideal opponent. It is up to us to go back to our best. It'll take time. We need to acquire results as soon as possible. We're up against Everton, who are in terrific form, as seen by their results and performances.

Following the Boxing Day match at home, the Cityzens will play their final game of 2024 on December 29 at Leicester at the King Power Stadium.