BENJAMIN MENDY feels title fatigue is behind Manchester City’s Premier League failure this season.
Defeat at Chelsea on Thursday officially ended their bid for three in a row.
And defender Mendy admits winning so much can take the edge off the hunger.
The Frenchman, whose error led to Chelsea’s opener — and ultimately to the defeat which crowned Liverpool as champions – said: “When you’ve won two consecutive titles you’re naturally a bit lower mentally.
“In some games we didn’t have the same determination we have now.”
Boss Pep Guardiola will be disappointed to hear one of his players claim they have struggled for motivation.
But he knew the game was up a long time ago and admitted his main focus is now on cups — with both domestic and European glory still a major goal.
Man City travel to Newcastle tomorrow in the last eight of the FA Cup and have a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid after the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
And Mendy believes handing over the title to Liverpool may help them refocus.
He said: “We’ve all got the same intention and ambition, which is to be ready for the match against Real Madrid.
“All the players have this determination and we need to find our rhythm and get back to our best level as soon as possible.
“The league is finished for us so we’re going to concentrate on the others.
“We’ve already won the Carabao Cup and we’re still in the FA Cup and the Champions League.”
Kevin De Bruyne, who scored a stunning free-kick in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, added: “In comparison with a lot of other teams, we are doing all right.
“We are still second and we have got big chances in the FA Cup and Champions League.
“Imagine if we come out after winning these cups — it will be an unbelievable season!”
