Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has voiced concerns about the potential impact of the Club World Cup on his team’s Premier League campaign. Guardiola admitted that the demanding schedule could leave his squad exhausted, potentially derailing their domestic season.
"Maybe in November, December, or January, it will be a disaster. We could be exhausted, and the World Cup might destroy us," Guardiola said. "This is the first time we’ve faced such a situation. We’ll see what happens when we return."
The tournament, held in the United States, has drawn criticism from other Premier League managers. England’s Thomas Tuchel suggested that participation could give rivals like Liverpool and Arsenal a significant advantage in the title race. Meanwhile, former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp labeled the event "the worst idea ever implemented in football" due to concerns over player welfare.
Despite these challenges, Guardiola emphasized that Manchester City’s focus remains on performing well in the Club World Cup. "I try to relax, enjoy the days here, and embrace the good vibes. The most important thing is to recover and rediscover our best form," he said. "We want to feel competitive again, as we have been in eight of the last nine years."
Guardiola also acknowledged the weather-related disruptions that have plagued the tournament, including thunderstorms and intense heat. Chelsea’s last-16 match against Benfica was suspended for nearly two hours due to lightning. "I’m an extraordinary manager, but I can’t control lightning and thunder," Guardiola joked. "If the match is suspended, we’ll adapt and continue when it’s safe."
Ahead of Manchester City’s last-16 clash against Al Hilal in Orlando, Al Hilal’s head coach Simone Inzaghi praised Guardiola as "the best coach over the last 20-25 years." Inzaghi, who faced Guardiola in the 2023 Champions League final, described him as an inspiration for coaches worldwide. "He developed a new philosophy of football that has influenced the game profoundly," Inzaghi said.
As Manchester City prepares for their Premier League opener against Wolves on August 16, Guardiola remains cautious about the toll the Club World Cup could take on his squad. "We’ll rest as much as the Premier League allows us," he said. "But the reality is, we’re venturing into uncharted territory."
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