Pep Guardiola: Lack of goals has hamstrung Man City's title challenge

City were held to a 1-1 draw away to West Ham United, a result that further dented their hopes of catching league leaders Arsenal in the Premier League race. Speaking during his post-match media duties, Guardiola admitted the gap to the summit now looks extremely difficult to close.

The draw leaves City nine points behind Arsenal, who continue to show no signs of slipping at the top of the table.

With only two points collected from their last two league matches, Guardiola acknowledged that the title race may effectively be beyond his team, even if it is not yet mathematically decided.

City's manager pointed to one key problem that has defined the campaign: a lack of goals. Guardiola said the team's inability to convert chances consistently has been the decisive factor undermining their push to retain the title.

The Spaniard also hinted that the squad has spent much of the season adapting tactically, suggesting the ongoing adjustments have contributed to inconsistency in front of goal.

"Unfortunately we didn't score enough goals, and that punished us this season," Guardiola said.

"We have to be better in the final third. It happened in many, many games."

He added: âœI'm still finding the best way to have stability and consistency in the team.â

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