In the long run I think Manchester City have a better chance at finishing top four ahead of Chelsea. Nottingham Forest are currently enjoying a fine run of form and not looking like they will slip up at any moment but if eventually something crazy happens then maybe Chelsea have a chance to catch up and replace Nottingham Forest in top four but until that happens, it’s still Liverpool, Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Manchester City in top four.
The top 4 is going to be competitive again because right now many teams will want to be there and be in the top 4 in the table. That is why I’m saying it is going to be competitive. However, Manchester City will concentrate more on the Premier League competition since the Champions are already not on their side, so since they are not currently the top four club in the table, they will definitely do everything to go higher because they are only concentrating on the league. Even if they won’t be able to go for the title race, I’m very sure they will do everything possible to get higher again.
I agree, now City will be able to rest more, since they are left without the Champions League, and we will see the team that we saw at the beginning of the season, when they could beat any opponent. Moreover, Guardiola will now make changes and they will sell some players, this should also create competition for a place in the starting lineup, which should also have a good effect on the results. City must get into the top 4, for them this is a mandatory condition for the end of this season.
Manchester City is already at the top of the table. I think what is mandatory now is to maintain the standing and that position because we all know what their performance looks like this season, so we can’t be sure of what they will do, although as you said, Pep Guardiola will now focus more on the Premier League. However, he will also make the necessary changes ahead to make sure things are getting better for the club, Manchester City.