Pep Guardiola appeared downcast as he made his way to his apartment in Manchester city center following Manchester City’s 2-1 loss in Sunday’s derby to Manchester United. The defeat, which saw United score two late goals through Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo, marked City’s eighth loss in their last 11 games, a run that has left Guardiola and his team struggling.
Despite the frustration, Guardiola took a moment to sign a fan’s shirt as he arrived at his 16-storey apartment building, the Deansgate City Suites. Two floors of the building are privately owned, providing Guardiola with a space to unwind away from the intensity of football.
Given City’s recent woeful form, Guardiola will certainly need rest. The champions now sit fifth in the Premier League, nine points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand. With each passing week, City’s chances of securing a fifth consecutive Premier League title grow slimmer.
Guardiola pictured arriving at his apartment in the Deansgate City Suites in central Manchester
The Man City boss stopped to sign a fan’s shirt, despite the miserable result hours before
Manchester City’s struggles after Josko Gvardiol’s opener left Pep Guardiola frustrated, especially following what has been a disappointing stretch of form for the team. Reflecting on the performance, Guardiola admitted that he didn’t have a solution for the poor run of results, stating, “It is what it is. What can I say? We cannot blame this player or that one, it’s not that. It’s the season, a tough season.”
Guardiola acknowledged that City were far from their best, expressing frustration over their inability to create much after taking the lead. Despite the defeat, he noted that it wasn’t the toughest of his career, citing Champions League losses as more difficult, but emphasized the need for results to lift the team’s spirits. “It’s getting worse and worse. I have to find the solution. So far I didn’t find it and this is the truth,” he said.
The manager took full responsibility for the team’s defensive lapses, which handed United an unlikely derby victory with two quick goals in the second half. “I’m the boss, I’m the manager and I’m not good enough. It’s as simple as that. I don’t have a defense. I’m the boss, I don’t find a solution, to find a way to talk to them,” he admitted, showing accountability for the current situation.
Guardiola has experienced the worst form of his managerial career in recent weeks with City
Amad Diallo’s 90th-minute winner handed Man United all three points at the Etihad Stadium
Ruben Amorim continued his impressive record against Pep Guardiola, defeating him for the second time this season. Amorim, who had previously beaten Guardiola as Sporting manager in a Champions League clash in November, now achieved another victory, this time after joining Manchester United.
Guardiola reflected on the challenges his team has faced, acknowledging that there’s something wrong when a team loses eight times. He mentioned the frustration of drawing 3-3 after being 3-0 up against Feyenoord and questioned whether injuries were to blame. However, Guardiola emphasized that football is about emotion and composure, urging his players to relax and regain their confidence. “The worst thing is not to have composure and calm. What does it give you? Momentum and confidence. I said many times, relax,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, Guardiola maintained a positive demeanor. After signing a shirt for a fan, he smiled and walked towards his apartment block, showing his characteristic resilience in the face of adversity.
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