Guardiola Warns: Club World Cup Could ‘Destroy’ Manchester City Physically
Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, has raised serious concerns about the impact of the FIFA Club World Cup on his team’s fitness and preparation for the upcoming Premier League season. Speaking ahead of City’s round of 16 clash against Al-Hilal this Monday (June 30) in Orlando, Guardiola described the current schedule as “a disaster” for his players.
Tight Turnaround Worries the Coach
City ended their 2024/25 Premier League campaign on May 25 and returned to action for the Club World Cup just three weeks later, debuting on June 18. If the team reaches the final scheduled for July 13 Guardiola will have just one month to prepare for the new league season, which starts August 16.
“I can tell you, so listen, that we are a disaster. We are exhausted. The World Cup has destroyed us,” Guardiola told reporters.
“It’s the first time in my life that this has happened. So we’ll see.”
Club World Cup Demands Under Fire
Guardiola admitted he’s unsure how much the Club World Cup will take out of his players, but echoed recent concerns voiced by former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp, who called the expanded 32-team format to be held every four years the “worst idea in football.”
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“Jürgen and I fought together many times… especially at UEFA meetings, trying to improve the football calendar,” said Guardiola.
“So his comments didn’t surprise me. I understand his argument I would defend it too.”
What’s Next for Manchester City?
- Next match: vs. Al-Hilal – Monday, June 30, at 10 PM (Brasília time)
- Venue: Camping World Stadium, Orlando
- Stage: Round of 16, FIFA Club World Cup
If City advance, they will face either Fluminense or Inter Milan in the quarterfinals.
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