Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a stern warning to the club’s hierarchy, declaring that he could walk away if his concerns about squad size are not addressed.
Following Tuesday night’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth, which kept City’s hopes of a top-three Premier League finish alive, the Spaniard expressed his discomfort with managing a large squad, insisting it compromises his values as a coach.
“I told the club I don’t want a big squad,” Guardiola said during the post-match press conference.
“I don’t want to put five, six players in the tribune, I don’t want that. I will quit. If they don’t make a short squad, I will not stay. It’s impossible for my soul to put players in the tribune and they cannot play.”
Guardiola’s comments come at the end of a disappointing season for Manchester City.
The club recently missed out on silverware after losing the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace, and they are now fighting to secure Champions League qualification in Sunday’s final round of league matches.
City currently sit third on the Premier League table with 68 points, narrowly ahead of Chelsea, Newcastle, and Aston Villa, who are all tied at 66 points.
Nottingham Forest remain in the hunt with 65 points. A win against Fulham in their final match would secure third place for the Cityzens, while a draw might also suffice due to their superior goal difference.
The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss, who is known for his demanding standards, emphasized that his decision stems from a desire to treat all players fairly.
Guardiola has long preferred a lean squad that allows for regular rotation and ensures each player has a meaningful role.
