Guardiola: “We have a very big problem. I have the feeling that we have been very tired in the last few games”

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola addressed the media in a pre-game press conference ahead of their upcoming match against Lutton. The press conference took place amidst mounting anticipation for the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, where Manchester City is set to face Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.

Guardiola gave insights into the fitness status of his players, shedding light on potential lineup decisions for the upcoming fixture. He highlighted the importance of key players such as Rodri while also acknowledging the need to manage the workload of certain individuals.

“Resting Rodri against Lutton? Look at our games and you will realize it,” Guardiola said. “It is very simple. He is very important because of the quality he gives us, but if a player does not want to play, he will not play,”

The Manchester City manager also touched upon the challenges posed by injuries, particularly in defense, which have limited his options for rotation in recent matches.

“I also have to give the centre-backs a rest, but in the England friendlies, John Stones and Kyle Walker were injured and have not been able to rest. We have a very big problem. I have the feeling that we have been very tired in the last few games. Tomorrow we will decide what we have to do,” Guardiola explained, highlighting the team’s injury concerns and the need for careful consideration in managing player fatigue.

Manchester City will play Lutton tomorrow, in what is their last match before facing Real Madrid next week in the 2nd leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.