Pep says this season has been brutal for City, but they will come back from it even stronger

PEP GUARDIOLA says this season has been a brutal reality check for Manchester City but one from which they will come back stronger.

- BY DAVID MCDONNELL X@DiscoMirror

City, Premier League champions for the last four seasons, are fifth in the table and in danger of missing out on the Champions League for the first time since the 2010-11 campaign.

Guardiola also failed to reach the Champions League last 16 for the first time as a manager, with the FA Cup and a top-four place the only targets left for the soon-to-be-deposed champions.

Against that backdrop, City and England midfielder Phil Foden (right, above) admitted this season's difficulties had made him appreciate his success at City that much more and not to take it for granted.

Guardiola, who has won 18 trophies in nine years at City, echoed Foden, claiming the experience of this season will make him and his players better next season.

"In the good moments, always you learn," said Guardiola.