City ended a five-match winless run with a 2-0 victory over Leicester City on Sunday, courtesy of goals from Savinho and Erling Haaland.
While the win moved the defending champions to fifth in the Premier League, four points off the top four, it highlighted the squad’s ongoing struggles.
Injuries have taken a toll on Guardiola’s team, with Ballon d’Or winner Rodri ruled out for the rest of the season and key defenders John Stones and Ruben Dias missing large chunks of the campaign. City have also endured their worst league run under Guardiola, winning just two of their last ten games.
There were glimpses of hope on Sunday, with Kevin De Bruyne completing his first full league match since September. However, Guardiola emphasized the need for January additions to bolster the squad.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the City manager said, “Kevin [De Bruyne] is back, but we need more in midfield and defense. Injuries have left us struggling in key positions. When we’re all together, we’re the team we used to be, but with major players out, it’s very difficult. The transfer market is expensive, but we’ll see what the club can do.”
City are reportedly monitoring Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi, who previously turned down a move to Liverpool. Barcelona’s Dani Olmo is also on their radar, with the Catalan club potentially forced to offload players due to financial difficulties.
Reflecting on the team’s recent struggles, Guardiola added, “We needed this win. It wasn’t the perfect performance, but hopefully, it gives us a better mood heading into the New Year. We have to bounce back from a tough moment.”
With the transfer window set to open, all eyes will be on City as they aim to rebuild and challenge for silverware in the second half of the season.