PEP GUARDIOLA is facing difficulties as Manchester City endures a troublesome streak of losses.
The Catalan manager has acknowledged that these challenging moments can influence various aspects of his life, including his sleep patterns and eating habits.
With his children now adults and his wife Cristina back in Barcelona, Pep recognizes the solitary nature of managing during this adverse phase.
This week, he remarked: “You might have people around you, but the pain of defeat is something you carry alone.
“Sure, friends offer their support, but when you lie down and turn off the lights, comfort is elusive.
“You must accept the loss, take a day or two to reflect, and then bounce back.”
Despite having a drastically different mindset compared to the spring, when his team was crowned champions for the fourth time in a row, Guardiola remains resolute.
This is true even in light of a troubling record of seven defeats in their last ten matches—equivalent to the total number of losses City experienced in the previous 105 games up until late April.
The abrupt decline of his previously dominant squad has left many scratching their heads.
Initially, he connected this to having excessively long nails, but clarified this week that there’s more to the situation.
Man City manager Pep Guardiola performs a song for Barcelona’s 125th anniversary
Pep Guardiola’s Struggles at Man City
PEP GUARDIOLA has revealed that sleepless nights plague him during this challenging period, which he describes as the toughest of his managerial career.
Here’s a recap of the last 10 matches for the three-time defending Premier League champions…
Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 23: Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEAT
Nov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAW
Dec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEAT
Dec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest 0 – WIN
Dec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAW
Dec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEAT
TOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7
He mentioned: “I have a skin condition. I’ve been on antihistamines for the last two to three years. My nails did cause some problems with my nose, but there’s more to it than that.”
Guardiola, who turns 54 next month, indicated in a recent interview that he doesn’t feel rejuvenated enough for a new managerial position after his time at the Etihad.
Questions now arise about whether he possesses the needed energy for the rebuilding phase that awaits City.
Several veteran players, who have enjoyed tremendous success under his guidance—such as Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, and Ilkay Gundogan—are approaching the twilight of their careers.
Having nearly fulfilled all his objectives—if not more—with City, some doubt his ongoing enthusiasm to chase additional accolades.
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Amidst the turmoil of the past seven weeks, it’s significant to note that he extended his contract for another two years at the Etihad during this challenging spell.
It was Pep who initiated the talks—even while embroiled in four successive losses—and they reached a consensus in a matter of hours.
In light of the recent struggles and obstacles, he might be reflecting on his decision.
However, those close to him assert that he has no regrets and feels more determined than ever to turn the season around.
He embraced the challenge less than a month ago, and there’s no indication that he has reconsidered his position.
I have a skin issue. I’ve been using antihistamines for the past two to three years. Yes, my nails contributed to some issues with my nose. But the rest was due to this condition.
Pep Guardiola
Throughout the season, Pep has asserted that this was not the right time for him to pass the torch to a successor, and three months in, he remains firm in that belief.
The looming decision regarding the 130 charges of financial misconduct weighs heavily on him, as he has previously conveyed his loyalty to the club he holds dear during tough times.
Moreover, the upcoming Club World Cup taking place in the USA this summer will complicate the start of the next season, which he also has to consider.
Guardiola firmly believes that it’s crucial to guide City through this challenging period, and he remains dedicated to doing so.
Nonetheless, Pep suspected this season would be trying—partly due to the expectations stemming from their recent victories and the international responsibilities many of his players had during the Euro 2024.
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However, he did not anticipate such significant obstacles, as injuries have intensified the challenges faced early in the season.
Despite this, he remains optimistic that the return of key players from injury can help restore their winning ways.
None of the events that have transpired since the beginning of this decline in late October have shaken his confidence.
He commented: “I’ve learned in football not to deny your emotions or what you feel in the moment.
“If I’m feeling down, I recognize it, but I trust that this feeling will eventually pass. That’s my perspective.”
A victory against United in the derby on Sunday could aid in hastening that recovery.
