Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his frustration after revealing his club has been hit with more than £3 million in fines for consistently starting the second halves of Premier League matches late.
The Cost of Being Late
Guardiola disclosed that the club has been penalised for 30 late second-half restarts over the past three seasons. The meticulous manager admitted that while he is sometimes responsible for the delays, he finds the Premier League's strict enforcement ironic compared to other competitions.
"A lot," Guardiola responded when asked about the number of fines. "Sometimes I arrive one minute later but the rules are the rules. We are training later and if we train at 12 until 1.30, I cannot be here [at the press conference] in time. The club said if I don't start by 2pm they will fine me or fine the club."
Champions League Final Comparison
The City boss couldn't resist making a pointed comparison to the 2023 Champions League final, where a pre-match performance by Nigerian singer Burna Boy caused a delayed kick-off.
"We paid a lot of money as I'm late at half-time, but when we played in the Champions League final they had a show before the game and they are always late," Guardiola remarked. "They have to fine the singers!"
City have adjusted their schedule ahead of their trip to face Newcastle United, travelling to the north-east on Friday afternoon to ensure compliance with Premier League regulations and avoid further financial penalties.
Title Charge and Haaland's Milestone
Despite the fine frustrations, Guardiola's side appear in formidable form as they prepare for a hectic schedule that will see them play twice weekly until mid-January.
The City manager expressed confidence in his squad, stating: "If we continue the squad fit, we'll compete every single game and every single competition, I don't have any doubts about that."
Erling Haaland, fresh from helping Norway secure their first World Cup qualification in 28 years, is poised to reach a significant personal milestone. The striker's next Premier League goal will be his 100th in the competition.
"He's incredible this season, he's breaking all the records, personal and individual records, Premier League records, for Norway," Guardiola praised. "As a football player, world-class player, he deserves to play a World Cup and live the experience."
City face Newcastle with only midfielders Rodri and Mateo Kovacic unavailable, providing Guardiola with nearly a full-strength squad as they pursue a seventh Premier League title in nine seasons.
