Guardiola Upset With England Over Man City Players Injury

Pep Guardiola expressed that he had “never” experienced such intense anger as he did when John Stones suffered an injury during a friendly match for England in March. This unfortunate incident occurred just days before Manchester City’s highly anticipated Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid, a match that held significant importance for the team. The timing of Stones’ injury was particularly frustrating for Guardiola, as it not only jeopardized the player’s participation but also posed a challenge to the team’s overall strategy and morale heading into such a crucial fixture.

Guardiola’s emotions were further compounded by the fact that he had invested considerable time and effort in preparing his squad for the high-stakes match against one of the most formidable opponents in football in Europe. Many people consider the Champions League to be the pinnacle of club football, and losing a key player like Stones at such a critical juncture felt like a significant setback. Guardiola’s frustration reflected his passion for the game and his desire to put forth the strongest possible team when it mattered most.

The Catalan manager was visibly enraged with Gareth Southgate after two of his main defenders suffered injuries during the spring international break. This was particularly frustrating for Guardiola, especially considering the impact that injuries can have on a team’s performance. Despite his concerns, John Stones ultimately proved to be fit enough to participate in both legs against the eventual Champions League winners.

On a more unfortunate note, Kyle Walker exited the match against Brazil early and was subsequently absent from the City squad for the following four games. His absence dealt the squad a serious setback, and it wasn’t until the sixth match after the international break that he made his return to action. Meanwhile, Stones faced his own setback when he had to leave the game against Belgium due to an abductor muscle issue just nine minutes into play. The timing of these injuries created a challenging situation for Guardiola, who had to navigate the complexities of managing his squad while dealing with the repercussions of international fixtures.

Guardiola’s greatest concerns regarding Stones did not come to pass, as the center-back was included in the squad for the 0-0 draw on matchday against Arsenal, City’s following match, and started the game against Crystal Palace afterward.

However, the City manager was frustrated by the poor communication from former England manager Southgate and his decision to select Walker and Stones in the first place.

“I was never so angry like that moment,” he said. “Never was I so disappointed. It was a friendly game and we’re playing the quarter-finals against Madrid and two players come back injured from a friendly. I didn’t like it at all.”

Guardiola claimed Southgate had ignored him for years, saying they talked: “Before, when I was a player, the national manager called the club manager, but now nobody talks. Maybe the physios talk but the manager, never. In the first or second season with Gareth, yes, but not since. Sometimes [Netherlands manager] Ronald Koeman [calls] because he’s a friend of mine.

“I know they don’t want to get injured. I always encourage players to go to the national team because it is a pleasure, but if it is a friendly game, you cannot come back injured when you are playing the quarter-finals of the Champions League. I’m sorry. They are the first to do a lot of work to arrive in the latter stages of the season with a chance to win the title. The club pays us well, not the national teams. Sometimes, you have to respect the club. You can play, absolutely, but you cannot come back injured.”

City will be without the injured Kyle Walker for their upcoming match against Sparta Prague on Wednesday. In addition to Walker, the team will also be missing key players Kevin de Bruyne, Oscar Bobb, and Rodri. Their absence will be felt as the squad prepares for this important fixture, leaving the coach to strategize around the missing talents. The team’s depth will be tested as they aim to secure a vital result against their opponents in the match.

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