Champions League permutations: What do Man City and PSG need to qualify – and what is the price of not qualifying?

Manchester City’s surprisingly poor form extends across all competitions.

It started with them being knocked out of the EFL Cup by Tottenham in October and since then Pep Guardiola’s side have won only five of their 17 matches in all competitions.

When it comes to the Champions League, City took seven points from their opening three games but then suffered defeats to Sporting and Juventus and squandered a three-goal lead against Feyenoord in a 3-3 draw at the Etihad Stadium.

City have looked to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window, although new signings will not be able to play in the league stage.

“Of course it’s a really important game for us and for PSG, but we still have to play another game at home against Bruges,” Guardiola said.

“I don’t know how many points we would need. Six points would be mathematically (definite), but maybe four, maybe three.

“But if we don’t qualify then we have to accept that we weren’t good enough.”

PSG, meanwhile, are yet to lose in the French top flight but have failed to replicate that form in Europe – earning just seven points from six matches with three losses, one draw and two wins.

In the table, they are lowest among the so-called ‘big clubs’ of Europe and are currently in the relegation places.

Luis Enrique’s side have suffered defeats to Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Atletico Madrid, as well as a home draw against PSV.

“The reality is that we should have won the matches against PSV and Atletico,” Enrique said. “With those (extra) five points we will already qualify for the next round.

“But I’m very optimistic and confident. Is this an urgent game? The obligation is for all players to give 100%, and that’s the attitude I take every day.”

“You can lose the game, and that’s life. The most important thing is to be committed.”