Manchester City is gearing up for a crucial FA Cup quarter-final clash against Bournemouth, hoping to salvage a tumultuous season that has seen them struggle to maintain their usual dominance. With their last major trophy win dating back to the 2016-17 season, City faces the daunting prospect of finishing the current campaign without silverware if they do not succeed in the FA Cup.

The match comes on the heels of a disappointing Premier League performance where City suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth earlier in the season. This loss marked a historic low for the club, as it was their first-ever defeat to Bournemouth, signaling a downward trend that saw them win only one of their following eleven matches across all competitions. Currently sitting in fifth place in the Premier League, City finds itself battling not just for FA Cup glory but also for a Champions League qualification spot.

Manager Pep Guardiola's side is under pressure to reverse their fortunes, especially after recent draws against Nottingham Forest and Brighton, which highlighted ongoing issues within the team. Another defeat at Bournemouth, who are yet to reach the FA Cup semi-finals, would further exacerbate the challenges facing Guardiola and his players.

As City prepares for the high-stakes encounter, the FA Cup represents their last opportunity for a successful conclusion to a season that has not gone according to plan. The outcome against Bournemouth could be pivotal, not just for their trophy aspirations but also for the morale of a team that has consistently been a frontrunner in English football.