Crisis averted then for Manchester City. Or perhaps that should read crisis postponed? The champions of England escaped the league phase and through a certain prism, there is a case to be made that Pep Guardiola's side are well into the post-nadir period of their season.

Pep Guardiola has reacted to Manchester City facing Real Madrid again in the UEFA Champions League after the two powerhouses were drawn in the play-offs.

Pep Guardiola reacts as Champions League draw sets up tough fixture schedule - February is shaping up to be a testing month for the Premier League champions