Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a stark warning to the club’s hierarchy, saying he will walk away if his request for a smaller squad is not respected.
Speaking on Wednesday, Guardiola stressed his discomfort with having a bloated team, noting that a larger squad would inevitably leave several players on the sidelines without game time, something he finds unacceptable.
“I told the club I don’t want a big squad. I don’t want to leave five or six players in the stands. I can’t do that. I will quit,” Guardiola said. “If they don’t keep the squad small, I won’t stay. It’s impossible for my soul to have players sitting in the tribune not playing.”
This statement comes amid a difficult season for Manchester City. Their recent FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace ensured they will finish the campaign without a major trophy.
Despite the setbacks, City remain in the race for a Champions League spot. They boosted their chances on Tuesday with a 3-1 win over Bournemouth. As the table stands, City are battling Chelsea, Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Nottingham Forest for three available UCL spots.
City currently sit on 68 points, two ahead of Chelsea, Newcastle, and Villa, with Forest trailing by just one point. A win against Fulham in their final match would guarantee them third place, while even a draw might suffice thanks to their superior goal difference.
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