Pep Guardiola Responds to Jose Mourinho: “Another One on the Huge List” Hoping for Manchester City’s Relegation
Pep Guardiola has dismissed Jose Mourinho’s recent remarks as just another addition to the growing list of critics hoping for Manchester City’s downfall. Mourinho, now managing Fenerbahce, had taken aim at City’s ongoing 115 Premier League charges, suggesting their success stems from alleged rule breaches.
Guardiola clarified his earlier comments, where he joked that he wouldn’t face the sack like Mourinho because he has won six Premier League titles compared to Mourinho’s three. Addressing the situation, Guardiola said: “It was a joke, but he’s another one on the huge list that want the team in League One or the Conference.”
“Innocent Until Proven Guilty”
The City boss stood firm on his team’s position amid the ongoing investigations, emphasizing the importance of due process. “I would say to Jose the same: we are innocent until proven guilty. After that, we will see what happens,” Guardiola said.
He continued: “He is another one on the huge list in this country and more around the world that want us at the bottom. It’s OK, it’s fine. I’ve said many times, wait for the sentence. Everyone, especially in a democracy, is innocent until proven guilty. Right?”
Guardiola also reminded Mourinho of the numbers, adding: “The fact is he has three [Premier League titles] and I have six. This is a fact, but the intention behind my comment was completely fine.”
A Public Apology
Guardiola expressed regret if his joke had upset Mourinho: “If I have offended him, I’m so sorry, but it was a joke.”
When asked about other jibes, including one from Arne Slot, who joked that Mohamed Salah expects this to be his last game against City at Anfield due to their potential relegation, Guardiola dismissed the remark: “The joke from Arne Slot is his business, not my business.”
The Bigger Picture
Guardiola’s comments underline the scrutiny Manchester City faces over the 115 charges brought by the Premier League. While Mourinho remains vocal about City’s alleged infractions, Guardiola is adamant about the club’s innocence unless proven otherwise. “We’ll wait and after we’ll see,” he concluded.
