Manager accepts packed schedule during crucial run-in and praises departing Stones
Pep Guardiola has downplayed concerns over Manchester City’s congested fixture list as they continue their push for a domestic treble.
City have won the Carabao Cup and are further eyeing the FA Cup and the Premier League trophy, but they face a demanding run after league matches against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth were rescheduled around their FA Cup final clash with Chelsea.
The changes mean City will play three games in seven days between 13 May and 19 May, before finishing the season at home to Aston Villa on 24 May.
The club had expressed frustration over the timing of the rearrangements, particularly the delay in rescheduling the Palace fixture, but Guardiola has accepted the situation.
“It is what it is,” Guardiola said. “When we won the treble and quadruple we always had this kind of calendar. Of course it could be better but I’ve never expected [help]. We’ll do that and go game by game.
“The broadcasters, Premier League, whoever, decides. We will be there with 11 players plus people on the bench.”
City are three points behind leaders Arsenal with a game in hand. Guardiola insisted the timing of fixtures would not affect his approach to each of his side’s six games left.
“It’s normal, it’s the calendar,” City’s coach maintained. “Sometimes you play first, sometimes behind. It is what it is and nothing changes at this stage – you know exactly what you have to do.”
He appeared relaxed when discussing the title race, even joking about being unsure of Arsenal’s schedule ahead of their match with Fulham.
“What time do they play? It’s after a training session, so maybe I will watch it,” Guardiola joked.
Meanwhile, defender John Stones is set to leave the club at the end of the season after a decade. Guardiola paid tribute to his contributions so far, particularly recalling his performance in the 2022-23 season when they won the treble
“He was the best player by far in the final in Istanbul,” Guardiola said. “That shows his huge personality. Like with Bernardo [Silva], part of ourselves is leaving. His contribution has been massive. He’s an incredible person on and off the pitch.”
