Guardiola: I Would Have Been Sacked by Barcelona or Real Madrid After City’s Tough Season
Pep Guardiola has candidly stated that had he faced similar struggles at Barcelona or Real Madrid as he did this season with Manchester City, he would have been dismissed from his managerial role.
City experienced one of their most challenging campaigns under Guardiola, finishing third in the Premier League—13 points behind rivals Liverpool. The reigning champions were also eliminated early from both the Champions League and Carabao Cup, and suffered a surprising defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final.
Reflecting on this turbulent season, Guardiola remarked, “With the year we’ve had, if this were Spain, I wouldn’t be coaching in October, November or December. If this were Barça or Madrid, they would have sacked me.”
He emphasized the contrast in managerial patience between the Premier League and LaLiga, noting, “Here it wasn’t even a question. You have to have a little more patience.”
Guardiola also referenced Carlo Ancelotti’s recent departure from Real Madrid, despite winning both the Champions League and LaLiga. “Look at Carlo Ancelotti,” he added. “He won the Champions League and LaLiga four days ago and now he’s off to coach in Brazil.”
As City prepares for the upcoming season, they have already bolstered their squad by signing Rayan Aït-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, and Tijjani Reijnders. The club is focused on regaining their dominance in both domestic and international competitions.
Both Manchester City and Real Madrid are set to compete in the Club World Cup, which kicks off this Saturday.
