Guardiola Criticizes Fixture Congestion: “These Are My Players, Not Goods”

Guardiola Outraged: “These Are Not Goods, These Are My Players”

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed frustration over the demanding match schedule, defending his players against what he sees as excessive fixture congestion.

City are set to play a Carabao Cup match against Watford on Tuesday, 24 September, just two days after a crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal on 22 September. Guardiola criticized the tight scheduling, emphasizing that concerns over player health were being neglected.

Speaking to the media, Guardiola said: “In the quarter-final against Real Madrid, we played extra-time on Wednesday, so why did we play on Sunday and not on Saturday? The broadcasters said no because there were more spectators and more ratings, but it was the opposite. Coventry, who had a great performance, coupled with a championship team, had more viewers. If the game is good, people will watch. Why couldn’t we play on Sunday? It’s difficult for me to understand.”

He continued: “The broadcasters say they have to defend their product, but I say it’s not a product, it’s my club. These are my players. That’s why we were unhappy.”