Pep Guardiola passionately criticizes Manchester City fixture scheduling

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has criticized the Premier League and Football Association for their recent fixture scheduling.

The Sky Blues are set to face Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon, kicking off a busy period with at least 10 matches before the end of April in three different competitions.

Guardiola’s team is aiming to replicate last season’s historic treble, with upcoming fixtures including a UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid and an Emirates FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea at Wembley Stadium.

With just one point separating Arsenal, Liverpool, and City in the Premier League title race, Guardiola’s side is the only club still competing on three fronts after Liverpool and Arsenal were eliminated from the FA Cup.

Manchester City has already played 45 matches this season, including trips to Saudi Arabia for the FIFA Club World Cup and Greece for the UEFA Super Cup. The upcoming schedule includes three Premier League games in less than seven days after the international break.

Guardiola is frustrated by the scheduling of FA Cup semi-finals against Chelsea on Saturday, April 20th, and a Premier League match against Brighton on Thursday, April 25th.

The 53-year-old manager has voiced his displeasure with the authorities, questioning the reasoning behind certain scheduling decisions affecting Manchester City’s fixture list.

Guardiola’s frustration with the scheduling is evident in his comments about the club’s upcoming matches and the lack of rest compared to other teams.

The manager emphasizes the importance of fair scheduling and adequate recovery time for his team amidst the congested fixture list.

Guardiola’s comments reflect his concerns about the impact of the demanding schedule on Manchester City’s performance and the need for equitable treatment in fixture arrangements.

Despite the challenges posed by the busy schedule, Guardiola remains determined to defend his club’s interests and navigate through the demanding period ahead.