Pep Guardiola Aims a Sarcastic Swipe at Premier League After City’s Fixture Request Denied

Guardiola’s primary concern is the potential strain on his players, who are already expected to play a grueling schedule due to the Club World Cup and then face a Premier League campaign just weeks later.

Pep Guardiola Aims a Sarcastic Swipe at Premier League After City’s Fixture Request Denied

Pep Guardiola has expressed frustration after the Premier League rejected Manchester City‘s request for a delayed start to next season, following their participation in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. The revamped tournament will take place next summer in the United States, running for four weeks and ending on July 13, giving City players just under a month before the new Premier League season begins.

City’s manager sarcastically commented on the Premier League’s decision, saying, “The club asked the Premier League to postpone it, to have more holiday, but it’s absolutely not allowed. The Premier League said no. Thank you so much! I don’t have the answer. I think we take a decision with common sense!”

Guardiola’s primary concern is the potential strain on his players, who are already expected to play a grueling schedule due to the Club World Cup and then face a Premier League campaign just weeks later. Players typically receive a three-week break during the summer, but this tight schedule could significantly reduce their rest. The issue is particularly sensitive for Guardiola, as Manchester City is already facing a number of injuries and fatigue issues.

The Manchester City boss didn’t hold back on his criticism of FIFA either. FIFA has mandated that clubs bring their top players to the Club World Cup, a requirement Guardiola finds unnecessary. “Which are the strongest players? I don’t understand how the selection of a player makes him ‘stronger’ than the other ones. I know. I’m not going to be told before games which players are going to play. I will decide, for sure,” Guardiola stated firmly.

The debate over player workload has intensified in recent years, with high-profile stars like Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne speaking out. Rodri, who suffered an ACL injury early in the current season, had even threatened strike action due to the unsustainable number of games. Guardiola’s concerns echo those of other managers, including Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti, who voiced opposition to the tournament before retracting his comments.

Pep Guardiola Aims a Sarcastic Swipe at Premier League After City’s Fixture Request Denied

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