Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has raised concerns about the FIFA Club World Cup disrupting his team’s plans for the upcoming Premier League, claiming his players are already exhausted, Afrosport reports.
The Citizens have not had any rest since the Premier League concluded on May 25, with the new campaign set to start on August 15, a month after the conclusion of the Club World Cup.
Guardiola’s team have progressed to the round of 16 after ending the group stage with a 100% stage and will take on Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal in Orlando on Monday.
“I may say, so listen, we are a disaster. We are exhausted. The World Cup destroyed us,” he said.
“I don’t know, but it’s the first time in our life that that’s happened. So, we’ll see.”
Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp also voiced his concern about the Club World Cup, calling it the worst idea ever implemented in football, which Guardiola agrees with.
“Jurgen, we fought together many, many times… when we went to UEFA meetings especially, or when we discussed the Premier League calendar, about how to add more quality, giving the managers and players more rest,” the Spaniard added.
“So, his comments didn’t surprise me a lot … I understand his argument, because I would defend his argument as well.”
Headlining the Camping World Stadium this evening! 🇺🇸 🩵#FIFACWC | LIVE and FREE on https://t.co/qHE6dSCgcV pic.twitter.com/KeSwZ4Cx8o
— Manchester City (@ManCity) June 30, 2025
Man City will face the winner of the round of 16 tie between Inter Milan and Fluminense in the quarter-finals.
