Manchester City’s Champions League hopes are teetering on the edge after a 4-2 defeat to PSG at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday. 

With the final group-stage match approaching, Pep Guardiola’s side finds itself in a precarious position, with no room for error to secure their spot in the playoffs.. While City is currently outside the qualifying spots, the situation is far from disastrous and remains under their control.

What Manchester City Needs to Qualify

At the moment, Manchester City sits in 25th place, just outside the top 24 teams that advance to the next phase. However, the key to progression is simple: a victory in their final match against Club Brugge will see them leapfrog their opponents in the standings. 

Currently, City has 8 points and a goal difference of +2, while Brugge holds 11 points and a -2 goal difference. A win would push City into at least 24th position, guaranteeing a playoff spot.

Additionally, depending on the outcomes of other matches—such as Stuttgart vs PSG, Sporting CP vs Bologna, Juventus vs Benfica, and PSV vs Liverpool—City could improve its position even further.

What if Manchester City fails to beat Brugge?

However, if Manchester City fails to secure a win against Brugge, the situation becomes critical. A draw or loss would see City eliminated from the competition. Even a single point would not be enough to push them into the top 24, as teams like Stuttgart, Sporting CP, PSG, and Benfica, all with 10 points, are close behind.

Manchester City's destiny in the Champions League is clear: win against Brugge, and they will qualify for the playoffs. Any other result will end their European campaign early. The outcome of other games won’t alter their fate; it’s all in their hands.