Pep Guardiola has expressed his frustration with the Premier League over the scheduling of Manchester City’s upcoming fixture against Bournemouth, which is set to take place just 72 hours after the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace. The Manchester City manager is clearly unhappy with the tight turnaround, especially given the significance of the game in the context of the ongoing race for Champions League qualification.
With the Premier League title race nearing its conclusion, every point matters, and Guardiola emphasized that Bournemouth’s visit to the Etihad Stadium will be a critical challenge. When asked if he would have preferred the fixture to be moved to Wednesday or Thursday instead of Tuesday, Guardiola was unequivocal: “Definitely.” He praised the decision for Tottenham’s schedule, where they played on Friday before their Europa League final on Wednesday, calling it a “good decision.”
Reflecting on past seasons, Guardiola highlighted that City has often played on Wednesdays followed by Saturday games, particularly after the FA Cup semi-finals and Champions League quarter-finals. However, this season is different, as City did not have to contend with Champions League quarter-finals but still faces an arduous schedule. “We didn’t need that extra day,” he said, addressing common claims that the scheduling benefits broadcasters or attracts more fans. Guardiola dismissed those explanations, suggesting that previous years actually drew more viewers for other matches, implying that City’s matches are less favored by those arranging the schedule. His comment that “they are tired of seeing us” underscored his belief that the club is being treated unfairly in scheduling decisions.
Guardiola also pointed out the ongoing battle the club has faced with fixture congestion. “We have been fighting against these situations for nine years, every single season and nothing goes,” he said, revealing long-standing frustration with the league’s approach. Looking ahead to the Bournemouth game, he warned it would be a physically demanding challenge, describing Bournemouth as “one of the most intense and physical and direct and powerful teams in the Premier League,” with plenty at stake as they push for European qualification themselves.
The upcoming FA Cup final is also a significant moment for Kevin De Bruyne, as it is expected to be his last chance to win a major trophy with Manchester City before his departure from the club in the summer. Guardiola expressed admiration for De Bruyne’s incredible haul of trophies during his time at City, noting that the midfielder has lifted 18 or 19 major honours over the past nine or ten years. “Not bad I would say,” Guardiola remarked. He added that the team will be motivated to perform for De Bruyne and that winning one more trophy would be a fitting send-off.
On the injury front, Guardiola provided an update on Rodri, who has been sidelined since September following a serious knee injury sustained in a draw with Arsenal. When asked if Rodri would be fit to play in the FA Cup final, Guardiola said he was waiting on the medical team’s assessment. “When they tell me he’s ready, he’s going to start,” he said. The manager emphasized that the club will not rush the midfielder back too soon, mindful of the risks involved and the potential for setbacks.
In summary, Guardiola’s comments reveal a mixture of frustration with the Premier League’s fixture scheduling and a determination to focus on the important matches ahead. With the FA Cup final just days away, followed by a crucial league game, City faces a challenging period that will test their squad depth and resilience. Guardiola’s candid remarks underscore the pressures on top clubs navigating congested schedules and the delicate balance between competing for trophies and managing player welfare.
