Guardiola: Fulham clash is our most important game of the season

City are still in the race to secure UEFA Champions League football next season and need just a point to make the qualification.

The Citizens are currently sitting third on the Premier League table, with just two points separating them and the team in fourth and fifth place.

They will face Fulham on the final day of the season and must not lose if they are to get Champions League football next season.

The Spanish manager has opened up on Man City's final game of the season against Fulham in his press conference, as shared on the club's official website.

"It's better to go into the final game in this position than relying on other teams. Of course, our qualification also depends on Fulham, but it's much better that it depends on us. We need a point to qualify for next season's Champions League, but we have to try to win against a top team."

"This is the most important match of the season. We have to prepare well because, above all, they are an exceptional team. Watching them yesterday and today, I thought it will be a really difficult game. They're well-drilled, well-organized. They have everything.

"They've had their best ever Premier League season. Marco Silva has been working with them for a long time. They know exactly what to do. They have incredibly good center-backs, full-backs, a good goalkeeper. Mitrovic is a winner. They have pace with Adama Traoré. A top, top team.

"Rodri could be involved, but won't start. He's not ready for that. We are really pleased that he's back but there's a long way to go before he is back to where he was. I expect that will be next season. It might take longer for him to be the Rodri who can play 70 games a season. Step by step. Except for John Stones, everyone else is fit.

Asked if he personally requested that England manager Gareth Southgate not call up Phil Foden for the upcoming international matches, Guardiola stated:

"It's true that he has been struggling with his ankle for a long time, but I haven't spoken to Gareth Southgate. He needs a rest, and that will happen after Sunday. Step by step he'll get back to where we want him. I just want to help him.

"I don't care about his on-field performance. I want him to feel good, and after the break, that will come easily. In principle, he will be with us in America for the Club World Cup."

The Spaniard added that there is no chance Kyle Walker, who is set to return from his loan at AC Milan, will be in the squad for the Club World Cup.

Guardiola clarified that he was largely joking when he said in his last press conference that he would leave if the club didn't reduce the squad size for next season.

"I was laughing when I said that. But I don't want players at home with their families when it's game time. Everyone needs a chance to play and compete with the others. That's best for all of us. Of course, there are injuries during the season.

"If that happens, it can be problematic. But it's not healthy for anyone to have four, five or six players at home for the last three or four weeks. The club completely agrees with me. We'll find the best way."