Guardiola Hits Back at Critics After Surprise Defeat
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has staunchly defended his team selection strategy following significant criticism after his side's surprising home defeat to Bayer Leverkusen. The Spaniard made ten changes to his starting line-up for Tuesday's match, a decision that backfired as his team slumped to a disappointing loss.
'Over-Thinking' or Calculated Management?
Guardiola directly addressed accusations of 'over-thinking' his team selections, reminding detractors that his meticulous approach has frequently led to success in the past. 'Do you think that thinking is a problem, as a human being?' Guardiola questioned reporters. 'I can make a list of when I think a lot and it works. After that I'm (considered) a genius.'
The 54-year-old manager took full responsibility for the performance but emphasised that his decisions are always made with the team's best interests at heart. He explained that he consistently takes calculated risks in management and agonises over every choice. 'I take my decision for what is the best for the team in that moment, knowing it can be wrong,' he stated.
A Call for Improved Performance and Support
In a candid admission, Guardiola conceded that his team's performance did not warrant strong support from the Etihad Stadium crowd. 'As a fan, I would not cheer my team, playing in the way we played,' he said, acknowledging the effort fans make to attend matches.
However, he expressed confidence that the supporters will respond when the team performs better. 'I know the stadium because I've been for many, many years. If you do what you have to do, they are there. And this is what you have to try to do.'
The defeat comes at a challenging time for City, who now find themselves seven points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal ahead of Saturday's crucial home match against Leeds United. The team will again be without key midfielder Rodri, who has featured for just one minute since the start of October due to a hamstring injury.
Guardiola acknowledged the growing pressure, stating 'We cannot lose games - absolutely.' He pointed to Arsenal's formidable form, noting their similarity to a dominant Liverpool side from recent seasons. With the title race heating up, City's margin for error has all but disappeared.
