Pep Guardiola has found a new sense of appreciation for Manchester City’s historic achievements as the team endures a difficult time, admitting he would step down if he felt a disconnect with his team.
As they prepare to face arch rivals Manchester United at the Etihad this Sunday, City find themselves in an unusual situation, having suffered defeat in seven of their last ten outings in all competitions.
Despite reassuring fans by signing a two-year contract just three weeks ago, Guardiola’s efforts have yet to halt his team’s losing streak.
Asked about any regrets regarding his tenure, the 53-year-old technician remained firm in his stance, saying: “Absolutely not. I would regret leaving now. Sleep would flee me. Of course, they could decide to sack me – it is a possibility. But leaving now?
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When the time comes for me to leave, I will leave. If we continue to lose for another month, I’ll say, ‘It’s time for someone else to take the reins and take care of it,’ because this can’t continue forever.
The point at which I would consider my position would be if I feel I have lost the trust of the team – when they stop trying hard and no longer follow me.
At that point, we wouldn’t last another minute together. But more than ever, I’m all in. There is no doubt about it.
Guardiola now faces an unprecedented challenge, one he would rather not encounter, but one that has led him to reflect on the incredible run of success that has preceded this descent.
While remaining confident for better days to come, he acknowledges: “The greatest achievement is already in our pocket. We were the best. But these difficulties opened my eyes to how difficult it was to secure these victories . When we find our way back, we will cherish these moments because we desire this success, and yet we struggle here.
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The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach’s current dilemma lies primarily in his defensive line, now severely strained by injuries to key players – John Stones, Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake – and the suspension of Rico Lewis, leaving him with little options with Ruben Dias, Kyle Walker and Josko Gvardiol.
Guardiola says he is prepared to bear the brunt of the situation, noting: “That’s why I’m well paid. If I want to avoid the fallout from our performances, maybe I should consider another profession.”
“I never expected that the happy moments of the past would give me immunity during the more difficult times. That’s rare for any coach. I have peace of mind because I understand precisely why we have triumphed in the past, and I am equally aware of our current shortcomings.
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“It’s certainly concerning. I know the players realize that; they’ve tasted success at the highest level and know that no matter the conditions; we usually find a way to guarantee victory. Currently, we’re struggling to do that .
Improvements are essential. We can’t rely on our defense for results. But it’s football; that’s life.
Only a month ago, when we were league leaders, the only undefeated English team, who would have thought we would be in this situation? It seemed unthinkable, and yet here we are, and we could suffer further defeats.
