For the second game in succession, Manchester City dropped points against a side battling relegation.

City still have plenty to play for, even if glory in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League now appears increasingly unlikely. The Blues are just a week away from a EFL Cup Final that could deliver silverware, while also offering a psychological boost in the title race should a victory at Wembley Stadium pile pressure on Arsenal. They will also host Liverpool in the FA Cup early next month, leaving plenty still at stake.

However, manager Pep Guardiola must now accept that this current City side is not yet capable of reaching the heights achieved by previous teams. The incredibly high standards set during their run of four consecutive league titles remain a benchmark few teams can match. Comparing this new-look City side to those historic achievements is understandable, but perhaps unfair.

Still, the progress from last season is evident. Twelve months ago, City would have gladly accepted the position they currently occupy. Guardiola had said before the weekend clash with West Ham United that dropping points could effectively end their title hopes.

After the match, however, he softened that stance, reiterating his belief in the team and the determination within the squad to keep fighting until the end.

Yet the reality remains that Guardiola’s side has struggled for the consistency required to compete across four competitions. They have not always been clinical enough to finish off opponents, nor fully in sync on the pitch to play with the freedom and confidence that once defined them.

As Rodri admitted after the match at London Stadium: “The mistake we can make is to think we are the unbelievable team that we used to be. We are in a moment where we are in a process to come back.”

City may yet stage a comeback against Real Madrid, and they may still revive their hopes in the title race. But, for now, both ambitions appear a step too far.