Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has delivered a stinging critique of his players, accusing them of being paralysed by fear during their disappointing 2-0 home defeat to Bayer Leverkusen. The loss, which came after Guardiola made a staggering ten changes to his starting line-up, has prompted a fierce reaction from the Catalan coach.
A Lesson in Fearful Football
Guardiola did not hold back in his post-match analysis, stating his team fundamentally failed to compete. "We didn't try," he said bluntly. "In football, when you play on the green you have to try things and we didn't try." He theorised that the selected players were more focused on avoiding errors than on seizing the initiative, a mindset he finds detrimental to performance.
The manager expressed his continued belief in the quality of his squad players but suggested they may lack self-confidence. "I think they played not to make mistakes, not to play to do something," Guardiola explained. "They played to be safe, to not make mistakes and that's why it's so difficult." He described the defeat as a "good lesson" for himself, despite his vast experience.
Implications for a Packed Fixture List
The timing of this performance is a significant concern for City. With the team playing twice a week until mid-January, Guardiola's rotation policy is essential. However, this result suggests that some squad members are facing a crisis of confidence when called upon.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Guardiola confirmed he is likely to recall many of the players rested for the Leverkusen match when Leeds United visit the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Daniel Farke's side, currently in the relegation zone after just one win in their last six Premier League outings, represent a chance for City to return to winning ways after two consecutive losses.
Rodri's Imminent Return
In a piece of positive news for the champions, Guardiola provided an update on the influential Rodri, who has been absent with a hamstring injury. The manager confirmed the midfielder is "not far off" a return, which will be a major boost for a team that has clearly missed his presence and control in the centre of the park.
