Pep Guardiola expressed relief and satisfaction over Manchester City’s recent resurgence, after a rocky start to the season marked by consecutive defeats in August.
He called the improvement the “happiest feeling,” noting that the team is showing more fluidity, tempo, consistency, and “the feeling we are creating again.” He also stressed that despite the upswing, there is still room for growth — “we can do better and I love that feeling.”
City are currently on a six-match unbeaten run and have collected seven points in their last three Premier League matches, scoring 14 goals in that span — more than any other team. Erling Haaland has been central to their attacking strength, contributing eight of those goals.
Guardiola also acknowledged challenges ahead, including managing fitness for key players like Rodri, who has played only one full match since August. He emphasised that while it’s tempting to push his best players, protecting them and preserving their long-term fitness is vital.
Why it matters
- This kind of public acknowledgment from Guardiola helps frame the narrative of City’s season: not perfect from the start, but improving steadily.
- The emphasis on consistency, tempo, and cohesion suggests he values the process more than quick fixes.
- Guarding player health (especially for someone returning from injury like Rodri) is a recurring headache in modern football, and it’s telling that Guardiola is explicitly flagging it.
- The comments also set expectations: yes, the team is better than in August, but they’re not done yet.
