Pep Guardiola has urged for perspective on Manchester City’s recent struggles as they prepare for a challenging clash against Aston Villa in Saturday’s early kickoff.
Despite guiding City to four consecutive Premier League titles and six in the last seven seasons, Guardiola’s team finds itself in an unfamiliar slump this season, with just one win in their last 11 matches. City currently sit fifth in the league table, trailing Nottingham Forest and holding a narrow two-point lead over Villa.
Reflecting on the situation, Guardiola said:
“I handle the good moments, and I handle the bad moments. I’ve had tough times in my career as a manager, but we’ve always been able to bounce back. Right now, it’s just taking longer.”
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He continued:
“Over eight years, we’ve had 40 or 45 days of bad results. That’s the reality. But when you compare it to eight years of incredible success, it’s clear how exceptional this team has been.”
Despite the current form, Guardiola remains focused and optimistic:
“I’m fine. Like anyone, I have emotions. When things are going well, everything feels better, and when they aren’t, we reflect and focus even more on what needs to be done.”
Villa, who finished fourth last season, have impressed under manager Unai Emery, balancing their domestic campaign with notable Champions League victories over Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig. Guardiola praised Emery’s impact, saying:
“I’m not surprised. He’s an excellent manager. Their success in qualifying for the Champions League and their performances in it speak volumes. Managing both competitions isn’t easy, but they’ve done an incredible job.”
City will aim to turn their fortunes around in what promises to be a closely contested encounter.