Pep Guardiola has addressed the Premier League's decision to reject Manchester City's proposed fixture changes, urging his players to prove their dominance in English football despite a congested schedule.
Fixture Frustrations
City were left frustrated this week after the Premier League turned down several fixture proposals, resulting in the most demanding possible schedule for the final weeks of the campaign. Following their home clash with Crystal Palace on Wednesday, May 13, City face Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley just three days later, before travelling to Bournemouth the following Tuesday.
Arsenal, meanwhile, face their own challenges, needing to navigate league fixtures with Newcastle, Fulham, and West Ham while juggling their Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid. The Gunners returned to the top of the table with a 1-0 victory over Newcastle, though goal difference may ultimately separate the two sides.
Guardiola's Response
Guardiola acknowledged the schedule 'could be better' but insisted it is an enduring aspect of the game that must be accepted. 'It is what it is,' he said. 'I would prefer to play the Champions League semi-final. When we won the treble and quadruple we always had this kind of calendar.'
He added: 'Of course, it could be better, but I never expected from a long time ago something. It is what it is. We will adapt and play game by game. The calendar, the broadcasters, the Premier League or whoever has decided, we will be there with 11 players plus people on the bench.'
'Here it is what it is. We have to adapt. If you don't like, go to train in France or Portugal. I like to be here and I said when I was in Barcelona and all the managers here complaining about the schedule. It is what it is. I never expect differently. They decide to play, we will play.'
