Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has sent a stern message to his players, warning them against complacency in maintaining their fitness during the short holiday break. The renowned coach emphasized that the scales will be the deciding factor upon their return to training, putting the players under significant pressure to maintain their ideal weight.
Explicit threat of exclusion
In comments reported by the media, Guardiola explained that the coaching staff weighed each player before the start of their holiday and will reweigh them upon their return on the 25th of this month. Pep stated clearly: “Each player has a specific weight. I will be there to monitor how many kilograms they have gained.” He added, threateningly, that any player returning with even a slight extra weight would find himself excluded from the squad for the Nottingham Forest match scheduled for the 27th of this month, saying: “Imagine a player in perfect physical condition, then he comes back having gained three kilograms. He will stay in Manchester and will not travel with us.”.
Historical background: Guardiola's obsession with detail
These warnings are nothing new for Pep Guardiola, who is known worldwide for his meticulous attention to detail regarding his players' lives, from their diets to their sleep schedules. The infamous incident with Kalvin Phillips, whom Guardiola previously excluded for returning overweight after the World Cup, remains a testament to the Spanish coach's uncompromising stance on these standards, regardless of the player's name or star status. This rigorous approach has been a cornerstone of Manchester City's dominance in the Premier League, securing six titles under his leadership.
context of heated competition
These warnings come at a crucial juncture in the season, as Manchester City continue their relentless pursuit of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League. City secured a morale-boosting 3-0 victory over West Ham United, underscoring the importance of maintaining this momentum. Guardiola is well aware that any physical or tactical lapse during this congested fixture schedule could cost the team valuable points in the title race, especially given the intense competition of the Premier League.
Balance between rest and work
Despite his strictness, Guardiola showed his human side, emphasizing the need for his players to get some mental and physical rest. He confirmed he would be heading to Barcelona for a short break, advising his players to forget about football for a while and enjoy time with their families, saying, "Seeing the coach every day isn't easy; spending time with family is positive." This balance between strict discipline and psychological well-being is what characterizes Guardiola's philosophy in managing a star-studded dressing room.
