Quadruple is on for Pep – but he will be judged on Champions League fate

is what separates domestic greatness from global recognition.

Guardiola’s success in that competition will define his City reign. He is yet to replicate his Barcelona success, leaving Bayern with many in Germany underwhelmed by his Champions League campaigns, despite winning the double twice.

The past week felt like it had the potential to be a defining period for Guardiola’s ambition of all four trophies in a campaign, especially as it was only 11 days ago that he must have thought Liverpool would go seven points ahead.

No one at City would have believed Liverpool would be in the position they are in at this stage of the season. The pressure on Jurgen Klopp’s side was ramped up after City dropped points to Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Leicester City over Christmas, Guardiola continually talking about preferring to be in Liverpool’s position.

Overcoming Arsenal and Everton to go back to the top, albeit on goal difference having played a game more, felt significant. Beating Chelsea tomorrow would be even more so, ensuring Liverpool have to defeat Bournemouth and secure a positive result against Manchester United in two weeks to keep the title destiny in their hands.

The FA Cup draw has been kind, too, with City certain to overcome Newport County unless they suffer what would probably be the biggest shock of all time. For every other club in English history, the Quadruple has never been on the agenda. Guardiola has already led his club into uncharted territory by making it possible.

English football’s first domestic treble is more feasible than it has ever been.

If he achieves that, his place in this country’s history will certainly be secure – but the rest of the world will be still be asking, “Where is the European Cup?”

No matter how many league titles he wins, the Champions League will, ultimately, determine whether we come to view Guardiola’s City triumph as an English or European success story.