Manchester City return to Premier League action on Sunday, following the international break, to face Wolves. Pep Guardiola’s squad is riding high as the only unbeaten team in the league, fresh off the back of Arsenal’s loss to Bournemouth. Wolves, however, have had a tough start, sitting at the bottom without a win in their first seven matches, making this a stark contrast in form for the two sides.
Despite their dominance, City faces a challenge with injuries. Both Nathan Ake and Kevin De Bruyne returned to training this week but are unlikely to play a big role against Wolves, if at all. Guardiola emphasized the importance of coming to work with the same passion and energy, even after achieving so much success. In his pre-match press conference, he reflected on his managerial journey, saying, “I still like coming here every morning to work. I LOVE it.”
When asked whether there’s anything left to achieve, Pep humbly admitted that the numbers and titles already surpassed his expectations. However, the passion for preparing his team and the challenges ahead keep him motivated. “When I don’t feel this, I will not be a manager. I would not train.”
Guardiola also addressed whether he’s changed since arriving at City, admitting he’s the same emotional coach, but with the benefit of experience. “I don’t like it many, many times, but it is what it is. I’m not perfect, and I don’t want to be.”
The manager also dismissed the notion of being the greatest Premier League manager, instead giving credit to Sir Alex Ferguson: “For me, Sir Alex Ferguson is the best for what he did over time.” He also praised how rivals like Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta have pushed him to be better.
As City face Wolves, Guardiola remains laser-focused on the present challenge, eager to extend his team’s unbeaten streak while ensuring his squad remains hungry for more success.