For Man City boss Pep Guardiola, the focus has rarely shifted from managing his team’s injuries in recent weeks. Starting with a press conference that centered around the squad’s fitness, Guardiola remained optimistic about his players’ resilience despite the current strain.
When asked if he’d ever faced such a lengthy injury list, Guardiola reassured that his team was prepared to handle challenging phases like these, saying, “We are used to playing in these circumstances, maybe not to this extreme. The training has been very good, so hopefully, a few players can help us a little bit tomorrow.”
Guardiola commended his players’ tenacity, noting, “I know what they are capable of—they are extraordinary. I am really pleased with the way we played, fighting until the end to equalize against Spurs.”
Tough Path to Another Treble
Despite his squad’s strong mentality, Guardiola acknowledged that competing in every competition with a shortened squad is nearly impossible. Reflecting on City’s recent Carabao Cup defeat to Tottenham, he noted that maintaining a full squad is crucial for success across multiple tournaments.
“When we won the Carabao Cup four times in a row, I always played the guys who were not playing the last Premier League games. When we get to the semi-final—ok, go for it,” he explained. “Of course, against Spurs with Erling [Haaland], we are stronger, but I want to focus on other things at the moment.”
With Haaland kept on the bench in that match, Guardiola emphasized the need to protect key players during this intense period, conceding that it would be “impossible, literally impossible” to replicate last season’s treble success without a healthy roster. “When we won the treble, it was because, in the right moments, we were there, all the squad,” he shared.
Guardiola continued, “When we are all together, wow. We can compete in every competition, but it is not the case. It is what it is… Human beings have a limit; the rhythm and intensity are so high, and the opponents are so strong.”
Drawing a comparison with Rafael Nadal, Guardiola remarked, “Sometimes you have problems but you have to play. Rafael Nadal played all his career with pain, and he has many grand slams. You have to deal with that in football, otherwise, you will not play at the top clubs.”
Looking to the Future with a Larger Squad
Recognizing the strain of a short roster, Guardiola expressed a desire for a larger squad if he remains with City. “Next season, I know there will be seven or eight changes. I want more players; I don’t like to see them injured.”
Amid the injury woes, there’s some good news: Kevin de Bruyne is showing positive signs in his recovery. Guardiola confirmed, “He’s getting better. The last three or four days, the doctor said he made a step forward in terms of pain.”
Setting the Record Straight on FA Cup Final ‘Hangover’ Comment
Guardiola also took the opportunity to clarify his comments about his team’s preparation for last season’s FA Cup final loss to rivals Manchester United. When asked if his remark about a “hangover” impacted their performance, he clarified, “It was a joke! I said I am so bad at making jokes that you get. Of course, we were ready, they beat us fairly. After winning the Premier League we have to celebrate it.”
Reflecting on United’s victory under Erik ten Hag, Guardiola concluded, “They trained really well two days before the final, and they were better. United deserved to win. I didn’t make excuses because we were not ready. We were ready, and now this is not a joke.”
As City prepares for the rest of the season, Guardiola’s focus remains on guiding his team through challenges with optimism, while also looking to reinforce the squad for future success.
