Pep Guardiola is calling on City fans to help his players “more than ever” - first against Chelsea and again on Wednesday against Club Brugge.

The Blues host Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday (17:30 kick-off UK) knowing we can return to the top four with a victory.

And then, in the Champions League, only a victory over Brugge will see City claim a Champions League league phase play-off tie.

The boss says the City fans can be a huge help as his team continue to try and find their best form.

“Never have any doubt about these players,” said Pep.

“I know all the clubs around the world have [injuries]- it happens.

“I didn’t expect to be in the Champions League, but I didn’t think we could not qualify in the top 24 - but  Brugge is a strong team.

“Circumstances happen, still we have it in our hands - still we are there.

“Absolutely I’m not stupid – I  know our standards. We have [studied] technology, and the players are better than you believe.

“I believe we are a fantastic team and these players for eight or nine years, and result by result I change my opinion? Never.

“The legacy of this club and the joy for me around the city, and my family. We know that. I said many times, this season we will suffer.

“Ipswich or Leicester, we are back? It takes time. Next season we will  be back.

“Now we have to survive and qualify and understand the normality is what we have done and it makes me realise more now that what we have done is exceptional.

“Always accept the reality, never forget who we are and how good we are.

“We need our people now more than ever. They have to help us, incredibly tough game tomorrow and Wednesday. All games will be like that. 

“We will fight, and we will not be 25th in the UCL - the team is exceptional, really, really good.

“The hierarchy, CEO understand that sometimes life gives you circumstances.

“Ruben - one or two games then injured. John played all games in the Treble season, now he can’t.

“Players create ideas, and we didn’t have it last season, new players and everyone change especially here the momentum in our minds that we can do it.”