The club has a lot of players after signing new ones like Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Ait-Nouri, leaving Guardiola with a large squad. He prefers a smaller squad of around 20 players, but right now, City has more than 30 players.
Guardiola admitted that some players may feel unhappy if they don’t get enough playing time, and he wants to avoid that. He said the sales are for the players’ benefit, not his.
Despite the need to trim the squad, City is focused on winning the Club World Cup in the United States, and new signings are helping with that. They won their first match against Wydad AC and will play Al Ain next.
Guardiola also mentioned that Rodri is still recovering from an injury and couldn’t start the game, but he’s getting better.
🗣️ Would you manage in South America one day?
Pep Guardiola: “Why not?”. 👀🌎 pic.twitter.com/4f2Au6rf0y
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 21, 2025
Guardiola expressed his excitement about being in the Club World Cup and said it’s a privilege for Manchester City to be there. He pointed out that South American teams celebrate the competition passionately and that it’s always tough for European teams. He hopes City can go far in the tournament and bring energy into the new season.
